Page 48 - February 2023

EXPERT ADVICE 1 PITTVILLE STREET, PORTOBELLO,

EDINBURGH, EH15 2BZ
Cracks in the red sandstone are being repaired building based on maximum energy efficiency –
and inside the blocks, lime mortar has been and will require low energy use for tenants. The
applied – a sealant which is flexible enough to site will also only have a parking ratio of 25% to OFFERS OVER £795,000 5 2 4 D
let the building respond to heat and moisture. encourage more sustainable forms of transport
such as cycling.
Drew Carr, an architect on the project, says a
balance has to be struck on maintaining the However, there are many simple and inexpensive
character of the property while improving its measures you can take to make your home
insulation. Number 107 Niddrie Road does not more energy efficient without changing its
contain ornate period features like stained internal structure. Basic draught-proofing is
glass or cornicing, but window dimensions will relatively simple. It is also worth considering
be retained (even if this leads to less insulation). how you use your home, for example, you will
be more sensitive to draughts in your living
However, Jo Parry-Geddes is not convinced: room or bedroom than in the kitchen where
“What most people want to do is move into a you are moving about and cooking. Draught-
flat and make small changes such as putting proof windows with a combination of internal
insulation in between floorboards. You have to shutters, thick curtains and thermal blinds.
have a long-term view of it – if it’s going to cost
£60,000 will you save that in heating bills?” Seek expert advice
If you are selling or renting out a tenement
It is hoped that projects similar to the Niddrie flat and are unsure about the legislation, get
Road one can be emulated in the Capital in touch and we will be happy to help. ESPC
as Edinburgh City Council has set a goal of solicitor estate agents are up to date with what
delivering a net zero city by 2030 and retrofitting is currently happening in the local market and
will be crucial to reaching this target. have the skills and expertise to provide the
guidance and support you need.
The Western Villages project in Granton is set
to become Scotland’s largest operational
net zero housing development, creating 444
sustainable homes. The project will have a ‘fabric
first’ approach – designing and constructing a

Scottish housing facts
Enjoy a coastal location with this five-bedroom main door, double upper property in
• Nearly a fifth of Scotland’s 2.5 million homes Edinburgh's Portobello. A stone-built Victorian home and minutes from Portobello beach and
are more than 100 years old.
High Street, it boasts outstanding accommodation. The generous and stylish interiors are
• Tenement flats emit 5.6 tonnes of carbon a complemented by an enviable decked roof terrace/ drying area offering panoramic views.
year, compared with 3.6 tonnes for those built
since 1982, according to Scottish Government
estimates.
VIEWING INFORMATION
• Some 30% of 587,000 households in
tenements in 2019 were classified as fuel poor By appointment with Coulters.
By appointment with ESPC chartered firm
by the Scottish Government. Coulters, call 0131 253 2215

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