THE BRIEF

Securing planning permission for a landmark brownfield regeneration project.

Summix Capital appointed Orbit Communications to provide strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and planning support for Edinburgh Gateway, a major mixed-use regeneration project on the former Saica packaging facility in West Edinburgh.

The 15.5-acre brownfield site, allocated for redevelopment in the City Plan 2030, presented an opportunity to transform a vacant industrial site into one of Scotland’s best-connected new neighbourhoods. The proposals included 957 homes, 35 per cent affordable housing, a 172-bedroom hotel, commercial and community space, extensive public realm and direct integration with Edinburgh Gateway rail and tram stations.

Given the scale of the development and its importance in helping address Edinburgh’s housing emergency, the project required a comprehensive communications and engagement programme to support the planning application and build understanding among key stakeholders.

Our Approach

  • Developed and delivered a strategic stakeholder and community engagement programme to support the planning application.
  • Engaged proactively with local residents, community organisations, elected members and other key stakeholders throughout the planning process.
  • Prepared clear, accessible communications explaining the regeneration benefits, housing provision, sustainability measures and public realm improvements.
  • Supported media relations to raise awareness of the proposals and communicate the wider economic and social benefits of redeveloping a prominent brownfield site.
  • Worked closely with the client and consultant team to ensure consistent messaging across all communications and planning materials.
  • Highlighted the development’s contribution to tackling Edinburgh’s housing emergency, delivering affordable homes and creating a sustainable, low-car neighbourhood centred around public transport.

Outputs & Outcomes

Planning permission was granted by Edinburgh Council’s Development Management Sub-Committee, enabling the regeneration of one of the capital’s last significant brownfield development opportunities.

The project demonstrated how effective communications and stakeholder engagement can help build understanding of complex regeneration proposals, supporting the delivery of much-needed housing while transforming a vacant industrial site into a vibrant new mixed-use neighbourhood.