Public Consultation for Cameron Toll Plans Attracts Over 400 Attendees

Developers are seeing considerable public engagement regarding the future of the Cameron Toll Shopping Centre in Edinburgh, with more than 400 individuals attending the second phase of public consultation. This shopping centre, which is the largest private sector employer in the area, supports approximately 600 full and part-time jobs. The developers aim to modernize the centre, originally built in the 1980s, to create a “vibrant 20-minute neighbourhood” and a “genuine town centre.”

A previous consultation event took place in December 2023, leading to revisions in the proposals based on community feedback. Developers have reported positive responses from attendees at both consultation events, indicating strong local interest. In addition to public meetings, a consultation roadshow will reach out to community councils and residents’ groups to further engage the community.

The proposals include maintaining and enhancing shopping and leisure facilities, ensuring that Sainsbury’s remains a cornerstone of the centre. Plans also feature the creation of new retail units to retain existing tenants and attract new brands. A total of 500 new family homes is included in the development, with 175 designated as affordable, addressing the pressing housing needs in the area. Additional student housing is planned to support nearby educational campuses at King’s Buildings and Peffermill.

If the plans receive approval, the project is expected to establish a transport hub for the proposed second tram line, along with the potential revival of the Edinburgh South Suburban Railway. The area surrounding the Braid Burn will feature a lit walkway connecting to Inch Park, enhancing community accessibility.

Andrew Moffat, managing director of Hunter REIM, expressed enthusiasm about the community’s feedback. He noted, “We’ve been delighted to hear the positive comments about Cameron Toll from residents and to know how important it is to the local community.” Moffat also highlighted the significant challenges facing the retail sector, citing that 91 UK retailers have failed over the past two years, impacting approximately 10,000 stores.

To ensure the regeneration of Cameron Toll aligns with community needs, Moffat emphasized the importance of improving shopping and leisure options while addressing the housing crisis. “New housing on site can help tackle the ‘housing emergency’ by providing new homes for families, and the proposed student housing can help return flatted accommodation to residential use,” he stated.

Parking concerns were the most frequently raised issue during consultations. Moffat assured stakeholders that the development team is consulting closely with user groups to balance parking needs effectively for shoppers and local residents.

The developers are committed to adhering to the guidance set forth in the City Plan 2030, which prioritizes dense development on brownfield sites like Cameron Toll to protect the city’s Green Belt. Moffat pointed to the successful regeneration of areas like the St James Quarter and the tram system in Edinburgh as models for what can be achieved at Cameron Toll.

As the project progresses, the developers remain focused on creating a revitalized community hub that addresses both shopping and housing needs, ensuring that Cameron Toll evolves into a key destination within Edinburgh.