Astley Ainslie Draft Place Brief

Overview

The Astley Ainslie site has been in hospital use for over 100 years. It was originally a convalescent hospital and developed into a rehabilitation centre. The landscape setting was important to help recovery. The NHS is keeping some of its services on the site including GPs and the SMART Centre but is selling the rest of the site.  

City Plan 2030 identifies Astley Ainslie as a site for housing-led mixed-use development. There will be new development on the site. This will need to respect the mature landscape setting, keep its special character and create a sustainable place.  

Astley Ainslie is well-loved by the surrounding communities. It is an important place for health, nature, heritage, everyday walking and well-being. The Astley Ainslie Community Trust has worked closely with local residents to produce a Local Place Plan for the site. This is a community-led vision for the future development and use of the site. 

This draft Place Brief brings together that community voice with an assessment of the site and the aspirations of the NHS.  

We are asking your views on the draft Place Brief. Everyone can take part in this engagement. We suggest that you read the draft Place Brief before you answer the questions. You can download a copy at the bottom of this page.

If any of the materials are not accessible, please contact us if you need a different format/help.

Why your views matter

Your views will inform the final version of the Place Brief.

Once finalised, it will be presented to Planning Committee for approval. Once approved, it will become planning guidance. 

Future proposals on the Astley Ainslie site will need to follow the Place Brief. It will be a material consideration in determining planning applications for the site. 

Need a different language or format?

Please email the Interpretation and Translation Service at its@edinburgh.gov.uk quoting reference 26-0887.

Share your views

Closes 11 Nov 2026

Opened 15 Sep 2026

Contact

cityplan2040@edinburgh.gov.uk

Events

  • Morningside Library Drop-in Event

    From 5 Oct 2026 at 16:30 to 5 Oct 2026 at 19:00
    Morningside Library, 178-182 Morningside Road, EH10 4PU

    If you would like to find out more, come along and meet the team.

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  • Newington Library Drop-in Event

    From 24 Oct 2026 at 10:30 to 24 Oct 2026 at 13:30
    Newington Library, 17 Fountainhall Road, EH9 2LN

    If you would like to find out more, come along and meet the team.

    Add to my Calendar (.ics)

Areas

  • Natural neighbourhood area - Grange

Audiences

  • Anyone from any background

Interests

  • Land and property