York developer launches Edinburgh student scheme

A York-based property developer is set to begin construction on a new multi-million-pound student accommodation scheme in Edinburgh’s historic Canongate area, just behind the Royal Mile.

S Harrison has appointed Scottish construction firm Clark Contracts to deliver the 76-studio purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), which will incorporate retained architectural elements from the site’s original buildings. 

Scheduled for completion in time for the 2026 academic year, the facility will include separate study rooms, a multimedia room, gym, break out space and cycle storage.

David Clancy, director at S Harrison, said: “This latest development in Canongate will create more much-needed student accommodation in the heart of one of Europe’s top university cities, opposite the Holyrood Campus of The University of Edinburgh and within easy reach of lots of other key university facilities.

“We’re therefore delighted to appoint Clark Contracts and give this tired and unloved brownfield site a new and sustainable future, with a sympathetic design that contributes towards preserving the character and appearance of Edinburgh’s Old Town Conservation Area.”

The project is part of a forward funding partnership with Singapore’s Q Investment Partners, as S Harrison works on other PBSA developments in the Scottish capital, including a 65-studio project in East Newington Place and Ocean Point 2, a £100 million mixed-use waterfront development in Leith.

The company is also currently working on a 157-bedroom hotel in the city’s Haymarket area that will open in early 2026 and will be operated by European hotel group MEININGER Hotels. 

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