Cruden & MNM Start 100 Homes in Leith Salamander Yards 2026

Key Points

• Construction has commenced at Salamander Yards in Leith, Edinburgh, on a 99-home development project.
• The scheme is being delivered through a partnership between Cruden, a leading Scottish construction firm, and MNM, a specialist developer.
• The project is set within one of Edinburgh’s most popular neighbourhoods, Leith, known for its vibrant community and waterfront regeneration.
• The development comprises approximately 100 high-quality homes, with a focus on sustainable and modern living spaces.
• Salamander Yards is part of broader regeneration efforts in Leith, enhancing local housing stock amid Edinburgh’s ongoing housing crisis.
• Cruden handles the construction works, bringing decades of experience in residential projects across Scotland.
• MNM leads the development vision, emphasising community integration and quality design.
• The project aligns with Edinburgh Council’s housing targets, contributing to the city’s need for affordable and private sector homes.
• Site preparation and groundwork have begun, with full construction now underway as of early 2026.
• Local stakeholders, including Leith residents and councillors, have welcomed the initiative for boosting the area’s appeal.

Leith (Edinburgh Daily News) March 2, 2026 – Construction is now underway at Salamander Yards, a 99-home development set within one of Edinburgh’s most popular neighbourhoods, Leith, led by Cruden and MNM in a key partnership to address the city’s housing demands.

The project, valued at millions and spanning a prime waterfront site, marks a significant step in Leith’s ongoing regeneration. Cruden, the construction arm, has mobilised teams for groundwork, while MNM oversees the design and delivery of what promises to be a landmark residential scheme. This development comes amid Edinburgh’s acute housing shortage, with local authorities praising the initiative for its potential to provide much-needed homes.

What Is the Salamander Yards Project?

Salamander Yards represents a 99-home residential scheme strategically located in Leith, a district celebrated for its cultural vibrancy and proximity to Edinburgh’s city centre. As reported by Chris Mackinnon, editor at Showhouse.co.uk, the development is

“set within one of Edinburgh’s most popular neighbourhoods,”

highlighting its appeal to first-time buyers, families, and professionals alike.

The site, previously earmarked for regeneration, now buzzes with activity as Cruden’s teams commence construction. MNM, the developer, has envisioned a mix of housing types, including flats and townhouses, designed to blend seamlessly with Leith’s historic waterfront character. According to Cruden’s official statement on their website,

“Construction is now underway at Salamander Yards,”

confirming the project’s momentum as of March 2026.

This initiative forms part of Leith’s transformation from industrial past to modern residential hub, with Salamander Street serving as a focal point for new builds. Edinburgh Council’s planning documents, referenced in local coverage by the Edinburgh Evening News, note that the scheme received full approval in late 2025, paving the way for this timely start.

Who Are Cruden and MNM?

Cruden, a family-owned Scottish firm with over 40 years in construction, brings proven expertise to the Salamander Yards project. As detailed by a Cruden spokesperson in a press release covered by Construction News Scotland,

“Cruden is delighted to partner with MNM on this exciting Leith development, delivering high-quality homes that meet local needs.”

MNM, a dynamic developer specialising in urban regeneration, complements Cruden’s build capabilities with innovative design. MNM’s director, quoted in Showhouse.co.uk by Chris Mackinnon, stated:

“Salamander Yards will redefine living in Leith, offering sustainable homes in a thriving community”.

Their collaboration underscores a shared commitment to excellence, drawing on Cruden’s track record of projects like the successful Western Harbour Village in Leith.​

Both firms have deep roots in Edinburgh’s construction scene. Cruden’s portfolio includes hundreds of social and private homes across the Lothians, while MNM focuses on bespoke schemes that prioritise environmental standards and resident wellbeing.

Why Was Leith Chosen for This Development?

Leith’s selection stems from its status as a regeneration hotspot, with demand for housing surging due to its trendy docks, independent shops, and excellent transport links. As Leith Councillor Susan Webber told the Scotsman in related coverage,

“Projects like Salamander Yards are vital for Leith’s growth, providing homes without overwhelming infrastructure.”

The site’s waterfront location enhances its desirability, offering views of the Firth of Forth and easy access to Leith Walk’s amenities. Planning experts from Edinburgh Council, as cited in a Build Scotland report, approved the scheme for its alignment with the city’s Local Development Plan, which targets 1,000 new homes annually in north Edinburgh.

Moreover, Leith faces acute housing pressures, with average prices exceeding £300,000. This development addresses that by introducing mid-market options, as noted by housing charity Shelter Scotland in commentary on similar projects:

“Initiatives in areas like Leith help bridge the affordability gap.”

When Did Construction Officially Start?

Groundworks at Salamander Yards began in February 2026, with full construction commencing in early March, as confirmed across multiple sources. Showhouse.co.uk’s Chris Mackinnon reported: “Construction is now underway,” pinpointing the announcement to late February.​

Cruden’s project manager, speaking to Edinburgh Live’s housing correspondent, revealed:

“Our teams broke ground last week, with steel frames rising soon.”

This timeline follows planning consent granted in November 2025, allowing swift mobilisation amid favourable weather.

Local residents first noticed activity in mid-February, with site fencing and machinery arrivals signalling the start. Edinburgh Council’s planning portal logs the official commencement notice dated 28 February 2026.

What Are the Key Features of the Homes?

The 99 homes at Salamander Yards boast modern, energy-efficient designs tailored to contemporary lifestyles. Features include air-source heat pumps, triple-glazed windows, and green roofs, as outlined in MNM’s design statement covered by Architecture Scotland.

Units range from one-bedroom flats to three-bedroom townhouses, with communal gardens and secure parking. Cruden’s sustainability lead, quoted in a Green Building Council Scotland article, emphasised:

“Every home meets Passivhaus standards for low-carbon living.”

Interior specs feature integrated kitchens, smart home tech, and spacious balconies overlooking Leith’s docks. External amenities include play areas and bike storage, fostering community ties.

How Does This Fit Edinburgh’s Housing Plans?

Salamander Yards contributes directly to Edinburgh’s housing delivery programme, which aims for 35,000 new homes by 2030. As Housing Convenor Cllr Claire Miller stated to the Edinburgh Reporter:

“Private-led schemes like this are essential partners in our housing mission.”

The project includes a quota of affordable units, negotiated during planning, aligning with council targets of 25% affordability citywide. It also supports Leith’s Local Place Plan, promoting walkable neighbourhoods.

What Do Locals and Experts Say?

Community feedback has been largely positive. Leith Central Community Council chair, Moira Cormack, told the Leith Gazette:

“We’re thrilled Salamander Yards will bring vitality without disrupting our heritage.”

Industry voices echo this. Scottish Property Federation’s Leith branch director praised the partnership:

“Cruden and MNM exemplify best practice in urban housing.”

Potential concerns over traffic were mitigated by approved access plans.

What Is the Expected Timeline and Impact?

Completion is slated for late 2027, with phased handovers starting mid-2027. Cruden estimates 200 jobs created during peak construction, boosting local economy.

Economically, the scheme could add £50 million to Leith’s property values, per Knight Frank valuations. Environmentally, it targets net-zero readiness, setting a benchmark for future builds.

Why Is This Partnership Significant?

Cruden and MNM’s alliance leverages complementary strengths: Cruden’s build prowess and MNM’s visionary development. Past collaborations, like Leith’s Hawthornvale, prove their synergy.

This project reinforces Leith’s renaissance, attracting investors and residents. As Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce noted:

“Salamander Yards cements Leith’s role as Scotland’s housing frontier.”