The Finance and Resources Committee of the City of Edinburgh Council has recommended the approval of a £21.7 million contract to Kier Construction for the extensive retrofit of Craigmillar Court and Peffermill Court.

The 15-storey twin blocks, located in the Craigmillar area, were originally built in 1968 and currently lack insulation, making them significantly difficult and expensive to heat.

The project is a key component of the Council's Strategic Investment Plan for high-rise buildings. By introducing external wall insulation, the upgrade aims to drastically enhance the thermal performance of the 114 two-bedroom flats, ensuring they retain heat more effectively and reducing energy costs for tenants.

To combat issues with damp and mould, a Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery (MVHR) system will be installed in every flat. This technology extracts stale, humid air from "wet" rooms like kitchens and bathrooms and uses its thermal energy to pre-warm fresh, filtered air being drawn into the living spaces.

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Enhanced Safety and Infrastructure The scope of work involves a significant overhaul of the buildings' internal systems and safety features:

• Fire Safety: Every flat will receive a new sprinkler system and fire-rated doors. Each block will also be fitted with a dedicated firefighting lift, which features a secondary power supply and water protection to allow emergency services rapid access during an incident.

• Modernisation: Almost all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) services will be replaced. Existing bin chutes will be removed in favour of a more modern waste management strategy.

• Security: A comprehensive CCTV network will be installed to cover all common lobby landings and stairwells.

• Lobby Upgrades: Entrance areas will be expanded and brightened with increased natural light and new protective canopies.

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, Cllr Tim Pogson, stated: "This £21 million investment represents a major step forward in improving the quality, safety and sustainability of our high-rise homes. By upgrading insulation, ventilation, fire safety and communal spaces, this project will deliver warmer, healthier and more affordable homes for residents, while also ensuring these buildings are fit for the future."

Community and Environmental Impact The investment extends to the surrounding grounds, with plans for additional tree planting, a renovated play park, and the relocation and expansion of community allotments. To facilitate the works, residents will be offered temporary six-week moves to refurbished "decant" flats within the blocks while their own homes are being upgraded.

The main construction phase is expected to begin in March 2026, with the entire project scheduled for completion in summer 2028.