The planning application submitted by property developer Glencairn Properties was approved subject to conditional cycle parking provision by Edinburgh City Council’s development management sub-committee on Tuesday.

The site is located at the corner of Montrose Terrace and West Norton Place next to the General Store and across from the Abbeymount studios. The proposals will introduce a characterful building which has been designed to ‘complete’ the original plans for the street set out in the 1800s.

The plans will deliver a high-quality, sustainable building that will contribute to the regeneration of the former petrol station at the site. The site is the gap site left by the former Shell petrol station which was built in 1970 and was closed in 2011 following a fuel leak. Works to remediate the site and clean the ground started in 2012 but significant contamination remains.

The proposed purpose-built student accommodation will provide living space for students and activation of this corner site. It comprises a building of circa 141 student units in a mix of clusters and studios, together with space for use by the students, common areas, a laundry, gym, cycle parking and underground bin stores.

Daryl Teague, managing director at Glencairn Properties, said: “We’re thrilled our application has been approved and the strong community support we received for it. These proposals will redevelop a vital location in the heart of the capital and help to tackle Edinburgh’s growing student accommodation without removing available properties from housing stock.

“We believe that these proposals are in line with City of Edinburgh Council’s stated aim to deliver purpose-built student accommodation throughout the city, reducing pressure on mainstream housing stock. Montrose Terrace not only makes use of a derelict site but offers a realistic use for the location without placing additional parking or access issues on the immediate community.

“The plans represent the conclusion of a collaborative discussion about how best to make this site work. Glencairn consulted widely with stakeholders and the community to ensure this site represented the kind of forwarded momentum the city-centre needs.

“We welcome today’s vote, and Glencairn is thrilled to offer a new lease of life to Montrose Terrace.”