Firethorn Trust has announced a significant construction milestone at its purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project on Leith Walk in Edinburgh. The substructure of the six-storey building has been completed, paving the way for the next phase of construction.

Ogilvie Construction, the appointed contractor, began site operations in October with the demolition of the previous structure. The development will provide high-quality accommodation for 230 students upon completion next year.

In addition to the main building, a single-storey block will house laundry facilities, a gym, cinema, and cycle store, along with an electricity substation.


"Site operations started in October with the demolition of the previous structure and the project has made excellent progress since then," said Donald MacDonald, Managing Director, Ogilvie Construction. "With the completion of the ground slab substructure, the next phase of the build will see the columns rising as we complete each storey of the new building. This is our 15th student accommodation project in recent years, and we look forward to handing over a first-class facility to Firethorn Trust next year."

Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn Trust, commented: "As the first PBSA scheme within our Living portfolio, Leith Walk reflects our ambition to meet growing demand for modern student housing in prime university cities across the UK. With a shared commitment to quality, alongside the strength of its local expertise, Ogilvie Construction is perfectly positioned to deliver our vision for the development, which has been designed to meet the highest sustainability standards, while providing a vibrant community for students to thrive."

The development is scheduled for completion in time for the 2026/27 academic year.

Ogilvie Construction is part of the Ogilvie Group, a family-owned business with over 65 years of experience and 600 employees across the UK.