SP Energy Networks has announced a partnership with Edinburgh World Heritage to restore and upgrade post-war tenement flats designed by renowned architect Sir Basil Spence on Edinburgh's iconic Royal Mile.

The energy efficiency and conservation works improved living conditions alongside reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption by over 50% throughout the building.

Energy efficiency measures included the installation of double-glazed windows, insulation in the attic, the roof and within cavity walls, installation of LED lighting, upgrades to heating systems and improvements to the ventilation. The conservation work included repairs to concrete balconies and the exterior stairwell, which had significantly deteriorated over the years, the restoration of Spence’s original painting scheme to the exterior of the building, as well as the reinstatement of original windows.


Murray S., one of the residents, said: "The project has been a great success and turned my flat from being run down, damp and cold into a warm and healthy living space. Initiated and overseen by EWH and combining the conservation repairs together with the energy saving measures funded by SP Energy Networks, the project has brought the property into an excellent condition, made it more comfortable to live in and secured lower future running costs."

Yann Grandgirard, Climate Change Manager at Edinburgh World Heritage, said: "Implementing such an ambitious pilot project in a post-war building of this nature required an innovative approach and the support of residents, professionals, and our funders such as SP Energy Networks through its Green Economy Fund. The project helped reduce the building's carbon emissions, improved residents' comfort and contributed to the regeneration of the Canongate area as a whole."