The City of Edinburgh Council has granted planning permission, subject to conditions, for the refurbishment of Calton Square, an office building currently occupied by Baillie Gifford until the end of December 2025.

Promoted by Ardstone Capital on behalf of Manova Partners, the project aims to transform Calton Square, located at the top of Leith Walk, into a world-class office building meeting the highest Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) standards and achieving a minimal carbon footprint.

The revamped development will provide nearly 200,000 square feet of office space, featuring multiple roof terraces, a co-working area, and a striking internal atrium designed to serve as an auditorium for events. The design incorporates sustainability at its core, retaining and reusing existing structures and materials wherever possible.

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Key sustainability objectives include delivering best-in-class ESG performance, with the project targeting Nabers 5*, WELL Platinum, and BREEAM Outstanding certifications.

Craig McDonald, Principal and Managing Director of Ardstone Capital UK, acting as development manager on behalf of the owner and its advisory team, said: "The granting of consent, subject to conditions, has been a successful collaboration between the client, design team, City of Edinburgh Council and other stakeholder groups that have been very gracious with their time and support.

"With the lack of supply of high-quality office in Edinburgh looking set to continue there is much confidence around the project. Aiming to deliver the highest environmental performance standards and the lowest possible carbon footprint, we expect to deliver an exemplar office building, which will serve the occupiers, investors and the Edinburgh community well into the future.

"Calton Square will address demand for top quality office space in the capital, while making an important contribution to the city, and we look to continue engaging with the Council and local community as we turn our vision for the site into a reality."