Located in Newington, Cowan’s Close – designed by Andeson Bell + Christie - will provide a total of 19 fully wheelchair-accessible flats for social rent, set for completion next summer.

CCG (Scotland) commenced construction on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council in April and, despite being located within a densely populated area, the four-storey block is already wind and watertight thanks to CCG’s advanced offsite construction methods.

The firm’s closed panel ‘iQ’ Timber System is fabricated in CCG OSM – one of the most advanced offsite manufacturing facilities in the UK -  using sustainably sourced timber and precision-engineered processes that minimise material waste. 

Entire wall zones are fully assembled under factory conditions before being transported to site for rapid installation. 

This offsite approach not only enhances quality and accuracy but also significantly reduces vehicle movements, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and reduced disruption for the surrounding community.

In addition to the environmental benefits during construction, the homes at Cowan’s Close will deliver advanced thermal performance. 

The precision of the closed panel system results in superior airtightness and insulation, creating warmer homes with lower energy demand and reduced fuel bills for tenants. 

The development also features zero-emissions air source heat pump technology, further supporting the city’s transition to net zero by reducing operational carbon emissions.

Beyond the technical and sustainability achievements, the project continues to generate wider community benefits. 

Through Cowan’s Close, CCG is providing full-time jobs for local people, education and site visits for schools and colleges, and hands-on placements for students and job seekers. 

The company has also committed to sponsoring community events and contributing to initiatives designed to leave a positive, lasting legacy beyond the boundaries of the development.

David Wylie, managing director of CCG (Scotland), commented: “Cowan’s Close is an excellent example of how CCG’s modern methods of construction can deliver high-quality, low-carbon homes even on the most complex and constrained urban sites. Our sustainable, offsite approach reduces emissions, improves thermal performance, and ensures long-term benefits for residents through lower energy use and warmer, more comfortable homes.

“Equally important is the social value we create alongside construction, with new opportunities for learning, training, and community investment forming an integral part of the project.”