The scheme is the first in Scotland for Yorkshire-based developer S Harrison, which is seeking new investment opportunities north of the Border.

The Haddington Place development comprises 240 student units above 6,500 sq ft of ground floor retail provision and cafe space. It will create around 100 construction jobs over the next 18 months and up to 35 permanent jobs when completed in July 2016.

The Haddington Place site was formerly part of Edinburgh’s original Botanic Gardens and until recently housed the Botanic Cottage which is currently being reconstructed at the Royal Botanic Gardens.

S Harrison director David Clancy said that the company had been impressed by the warm welcome on this, its first scheme in Scotland.

He said: “We’ve been impressed also by the quality of the professional and construction resource in the city and we are now actively looking to invest in additional development opportunities across Scotland.”

Ogilvie Construction managing director Donald MacDonald added: “We have an extensive track record in the student accommodation sector and are proud to be part of this innovative project. The building will be completed to the highest standards using modern sustainable building materials to ultimately provide a great living environment for students.”