Elements Edinburgh developer seeks extra time to finalise agreement on public contributions

The project, known as Elements Edinburgh, would create a new neighbourhood to the west of the capital, featuring housing for up to 3,005 residents, a 1,020-bed hotel, and a range of community amenities.

Spearheaded by Crosswind Developments, the scheme aims to transform a 29-hectare brownfield site, partly situated on a disused runway at Edinburgh Airport, into a vibrant mixed-use district designed around a “20-minute city” model, where schools, shops, and services are within easy walking distance.

Planning permission for the development was granted late last year, subject to a legal agreement outlining the developer’s financial contributions toward local infrastructure and public services. These include funding for trams, schools, parks, and healthcare facilities.

Initially, developers were given six months to finalise the agreement, with a three-month extension later approved. However, the developer has now requested a further six-month extension, citing the complexity and scale of the project as reasons for the delay.

A report due before councillors next week describes Elements Edinburgh as a “new district” for the city that will be delivered in phases over several years. It notes that “progress has been made” in negotiations between the council and the developer, but acknowledges that additional time is required to reach a consensus.

If approved, the extension, retroactive from the end of September, would give both parties until March next year to finalise the agreement.

The request will be considered by the City of Edinburgh Council’s Development Management Sub-Committee on 22 October.