Key Points
- Plans to demolish the former Murrayfield Sports Bar in Gorgie have received planning approval.
- The site will be redeveloped into 80 student accommodation units by EH1 Students (Gorgie) Ltd.
- Developers claim the project will free up housing by shifting students from flats during Edinburgh’s housing emergency.
- An earlier proposal for 87 bedrooms was refused due to flood risk concerns from SEPA.
Gorgie (Edinburgh Daily News) January 31, 2026 – Residents in Edinburgh’s Gorgie area have voiced mixed reactions following the approval of plans to demolish the landmark former Murrayfield Sports Bar.
The pub, a long-standing feature in the community, will make way for 80 student accommodation units designed by Fletcher Joseph Associates. Developer EH1 Students (Gorgie) Ltd secured backing from Edinburgh’s planning committee after addressing previous concerns.
What has been approved for the Gorgie pub site?
According to Scottish Housing News, the proposals involve creating 80 student units on the site of the former Murrayfield Sports Bar. An earlier application for 87 bedrooms was rejected by planners due to objections from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency over flood risk.
As reported by Scottish Housing News, Maurice McCann, development manager for EH1 Students Gorgie, stated: “I’m absolutely delighted to get the backing of Edinburgh’s planning committee for our first student housing proposal in the city.”
How are locals responding to the demolition?
Community members in Gorgie have expressed a range of views on the loss of the historic pub, with some lamenting the end of a local landmark while others see potential benefits in new housing. Tony Banks, chief executive at EH1, noted the development will provide “a great addition to the city’s accommodation for students and free up capacity in the stretched housing system in Edinburgh,” as covered by Scottish Housing News.
What do developers say about housing needs?
EH1 Students (Gorgie) Ltd argues the project addresses Edinburgh’s housing emergency by moving students out of general flats, thereby releasing family homes. This aligns with ongoing discussions in the city about balancing student accommodation with broader housing demands.
What happens next for the site?
With planning permission now granted, developers aim to proceed with construction to deliver what they describe as an outstanding living experience for students. The project is positioned as a positive contribution to Gorgie and Edinburgh amid persistent accommodation pressures.
Planning officials have cleared the path for demolition and redevelopment, marking a significant change for the Gorgie neighbourhood.
