Property developer Dandara wants to demolish the vacant Traquair House in the city’s Pinkhill area to make way for the residential block of one bed, two bed and three bedroom apartments, a quarter of which would be classed as affordable.

Under the plans, all the dwellings would have either a balcony, terrace or private garden and each will be provided with a secure cycle store within the building. The communal landscaped areas will be carefully landscaped to provide attractive spaces for the community.

Formerly used as an office by ST Microelectronics, Traquair House has been unoccupied since the previous occupier vacated the building earlier this year.

Refurbishment of the building was considered and discounted as it was regarded as not in keeping with the residential character of the area and its steel frame construction did not lend itself well to conversion to residential due to noise issues and configuration of the space.

As a result, Dandara considered that the only feasible option was to demolish the current office building and deliver a residential development that is “in keeping with the area”.