Creation Covenant Alliance

Granton Waterfront Transforms as Edinburgh’s 20-Minute City Vision Materializes

Learn about the first phase plans of a $1.65 billion sustainable coastal town development at Granton Waterfront in Edinburgh.
aerial view of granton

Granton Waterfront’s $1.65 Billion Sustainable Coastal Town Project

Plans for the first phase of a $1.65 billion sustainable coastal town at Granton Waterfront in Edinburgh have been made public on the Council’s Planning Portal. Created in partnership with Cruden Homes, this project aims to convert Edinburgh’s largest brownfield site into an eco-friendly community.

Key Features of the Development

The development will present over 800 net zero homes, a new primary school, a low-carbon heat network, commercial units, active travel routes, sustainable transport infrastructure, and public open spaces. A minimum of 35% of the homes will be allocated as affordable tenure, ensuring a diverse and inclusive community.

The homes are designed to be warm, energy-efficient, and suitable for families and wheelchair users. They will be part of a low-carbon heat network delivered by Vattenfall Heat UK Ltd, aligning with the project’s sustainability goals. The iconic Granton Gasholder, currently undergoing restoration, will be a public park, adding to the site’s historical structures such as the refurbished Granton Station.

Community Consultation and Project Leadership

Council Leader Cammy Day emphasized the continuous community consultation throughout the project. Day also highlighted the unique opportunity to build a 20-minute neighborhood from the ground up. This neighborhood will include affordable net zero homes, shops, cultural, leisure, and education facilities, all within close proximity. The plans also illustrate how the new neighborhood will connect to the rest of the city and nearby communities.

A Vision for Transformation

Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden Homes, expressed excitement about the project. He shared his anticipation for delivering 847 high-quality, sustainable new homes that will contribute significantly towards addressing the housing crisis.

Understanding the 20-Minute City Concept

The 20-Minute Neighborhood is an urban model that allows residents access to most of their daily needs within a short walk or cycle ride from home. This model aims to create “human scale” cities with neighborhoods favoring people-friendly transport options. It promotes essential services such as grocery stores, schools, parks, and healthcare, encouraging active travel to reduce commutes and emissions. Cities including Paris, Melbourne and others globally are adopting this approach to enhance local living, boost local economies, and improve sustainability.

Paris, for example, has adopted the 15-minute city concept, transforming its mobility culture by banning high-polluting vehicles and creating green spaces. Melbourne has a strategic plan for 20-minute neighborhoods, promoting high-quality public spaces and accessible services. Other cities, including London, Madrid, Berlin, and Milan, have explored similar approaches. While the 20-minute concept has garnered global interest, it faces challenges in funding, social integration, and infrastructure development.

The Granton Waterfront project presents a significant advancement towards sustainable urban development. With a focus on community, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility, this new coastal town will address housing needs, enhance residents’ quality of life, and reconnect Edinburgh with its scenic coastline.

Original Story at www.environmentenergyleader.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024