JLL has brought the Manderston Street site, located just off Leith Walk, to market, offering developers and investors the opportunity to a create high-quality, sustainable student living community in one of Edinburgh’s most characterful districts.

The building, which has been renamed The Grainworks, already benefits from planning consent for the transformation of the existing building into contemporary purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). A feasibility study has also been undertaken to explore the possibility of delivering a co-living scheme, depending on developer appetite.

The design, by Oberlanders Architects, celebrates the building’s heritage by utilising much of the original structure while introducing modern, light-filled spaces around a landscaped central courtyard. The main entrance to the accommodation will open onto a new public realm that links directly to Leith Walk with the former railway viaduct and arches bordering the site to the north along Manderston Street.

The proposed scheme features a mix of cluster and studio apartments, complemented by shared amenities including study lounges, social spaces, a gym and outdoor areas. It has been designed to achieve PassivHaus (EnerPhit) sustainability standards, setting a new benchmark for low-carbon, adaptive reuse within Scotland’s student housing market.

Once complete, the development will add to the ongoing regeneration of Leith, now one of Edinburgh’s most desirable neighbourhoods, known for its independent cafés, restaurants and creative scene, all just a short tram ride from the city centre.

Ewan Scott, development & regeneration associate at JLL, said: “This scheme really captures the spirit of modern Leith, preserving the area’s history while giving it fresh purpose. Transforming a building that’s been part of the community for generations into a vibrant new home feels like the perfect next chapter. With planning already in place and a design that celebrates sustainability and heritage, The Grainworks offers a standout development opportunity in one of Edinburgh’s most exciting neighbourhoods.”