Three multi storey flats at North Sighthill in Edinburgh are due to be demolished to make way for the regeneration of the area.

Glenalmond, Hermiston and Weir Courts - once home to 285 households - will be demolished by the controlled use of explosives.

The demolition is scheduled to take place late morning/early afternoon next Sunday but is subject to change on the day.

As part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s ambitious regenerative 21st Century Homes project, the demolition will make way for up to 1,300 new homes (the first Council homes built in the city for a generation) as part of new mixed tenure communities comprising 50% affordable housing (30% council homes for rent, 10% mid rent, 10% low cost home ownership) with the remainder for private sale.

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Vice Convenor of the Health, Social Care and Housing Committee, Councillor Norman Work commented: "I know that many people will have fond memories of the North Sighthill flats but I'm also sure that most will recognise the need for progress and investment in the area.

"Sunday's demolition is part of a programme of council-led investment worth up to £150 million aiming to build 1,300 homes across the Capital. This marks a major shift in our strategy that will boost the future of social housing in Edinburgh for the 21st Century."

An exclusion zone will be set up for residents in the area to safely view the demolition.

A reception centre will also accommodate any needs and concerns they may have.

The winner of a local schools competition to design a safety poster, nine-year-old Lewis Reynolds, will trigger the demolition.

Also attending will be local residents Maureen and William Murdoch who lived in Glenalmond Court for 43 years and Councillor Norman Work.

Some roads will be closed so motorists are advised to follow diversions and parking restrictions will be in force.

Local buses are also subject to diversion.

For those who wish to watch the demolition, they can do so live on the Stevenson College website www.stevenson.tv/live.

After the event it will also be shown on the Council’s own You Tube channel.

(JG/BMcC)