£21m retrofit contract recommended for Edinburgh high rise upgrade

Kier Construction is set to deliver a £21 million retrofit and upgrade programme at Craigmillar Court and Peffermill Court in Edinburgh, following a recommendation for approval by the city’s Finance and Resources Committee.

The scheme forms part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s wider Strategic Investment Plan for high-rise buildings and aims to bring the two 15-storey blocks, built in 1968, up to modern living standards.

With no existing insulation, the flats have been difficult and expensive to heat. The proposed upgrades include extensive external wall insulation to improve thermal performance, helping homes retain heat and reduce energy costs for residents.

Each home will also be fitted with a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) system to improve air quality, reduce damp and mould, and increase overall comfort.

Other enhancements include new fire doors, in-flat sprinkler systems, firefighting lifts, and CCTV coverage across common areas. Bin chutes will be removed and replaced with a new waste strategy, while MEP systems will be replaced where necessary.

Communal areas will also be transformed with larger entrance lobbies, better natural light, new canopies, upgraded concierge facilities, and improved shared spaces to encourage resident interaction.

Outside, plans include new tree planting, relocated and expanded allotments, a renovated play park, realigned parking, and improved access between the buildings.

Each block contains 57 two-bedroom homes.

Councillor Tim Pogson, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “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.”