The new homes will form the fourth and final phase of the development and work is scheduled to begin in April 2023. The construction of Phase 4 is set to support various direct and indirect jobs through Urban Union, its sub-contractors and suppliers, in addition to supporting a number of full-time apprenticeships.

Pennywell Living forms a major part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s long-term regeneration plans in North Edinburgh which aims to deliver close to 1000 mixed-tenure homes alongside enhanced local amenities. Urban Union has already delivered 585 new mixed-tenure homes, with 315 nearing completion at Phase 3 alone. The aim is to replace inadequate housing and infrastructure with a mixed sustainable development consisting of 778 new homes, 228 for social rent, 136 for mid-market rent and 414 for private sale.

In response to recent changes in the energy market and government policy direction, Pennywell Phase 4 will deliver net zero carbon homes. This will be achieved through a fabric-first approach featuring well-insulated external envelopes supplemented by environmentally friendly technology. Natural gas is removed as an energy source and replaced with air-source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, and a decentralized mechanical ventilation system for energy-efficient dwellings.

Located only a few miles from Edinburgh city centre, Pennywell Living is in prime position to make the most of the many shops, bars and restaurants the capital has to offer. Also, with great local primary and secondary schools, and a wealth of useful amenities in the area, the development is perfect for young professionals and families alike.

In addition to providing new homes, Urban Union and the City of Edinburgh Council are working closely with the local Pennywell community to provide new opportunities for residents. Most recently the ‘Creative Community Chest’ was launched in October. The £3,000 fund aims to support micro projects in the community that deliver creative and engaging content for locals.

Neil McKay, managing director at Urban Union, said: “We are delighted that plans for Phase 4 at Pennywell Living have been approved and we can start construction in April 2023. Due to excellent past sales success at Pennywell Living, and the popularity of the properties at the development, we are not expecting these homes to be around long. Because of this, we encourage potential buyers to reach out to the Urban Union team for more information on the next phase.

“Prospective buyers will be amazed by the spacious accommodation. Pennywell Living can offer including the comforts and efficiencies you would expect from a brand-new home, and so much more.”

Graeme Nicholls, director of Graeme Nicholls Architects, said: “We’ve enjoyed working closely with Urban Union to design this scheme for 94 Net-Zero Carbon houses for private sale for the fourth and final phase of their significant housing-led regeneration of the Pennywell neighbourhood in north Edinburgh. The site layout features terraced rows with private front and back gardens arranged around shared central green spaces.

“The new homes will be constructed with high-quality materials, including red-toned brick matching previous phases. Each of the energy-efficient homes has been designed with flexibility in mind, with layouts able to accommodate a variety of lifestyles and include home-working spaces. We are excited to see the project start on site soon and cannot wait to see the final results.”