Lord Provost Lesley Hinds marked another step in the progressive transformation of Edinburgh’s waterfront performing the topping out ceremony today at the Elphinstone Homes new 91-apartment development which is the start of the regeneration of Granton Harbour.

The official ceremony took place at Corinthian Quay, on the banks of the River Forth off Granton Square, where Glasgow-based Elphinstone Homes are investing £15 million in an 8-storey housing development of one, two and three bedroom apartments, each with a terrace or balcony with stunning views over the River Forth. (see model below)

Since the launch in February, more than a quarter of the homes have already been sold at Corinthian Quay, which is due to be completed by spring 2006 and which is the first stage in the long-term redevelopment of Granton Harbour by Forth Ports PLC .

The Lord Provost joined Elphinstone’s Chief Executive, Ken Ross, to conduct the topping out before an invited audience.

Lord Provost Lesley Hinds, commented: “The transformation of the waterfront from Leith to Granton is making an immense contribution to the city by providing modern homes and revitalising former industrial areas. Granton Harbour will be completely transformed over the next twenty years, taking a run down area of the city and turning it into a major centre for business, housing and leisure. I’m positive that we can create a balanced, healthy and sustainable community integrating new developments with the existing North Edinburgh community.”

Ken Ross, Chief Executive of Elphinstone said: “Corinthian Quay is a new gateway to what will become a modern and dynamic part of the city’s waterfront.  Although the building will not be completed for some months, more than a quarter of the homes have been sold since the launch eight weeks ago and many to local buyers. That is encouraging in the current market and an important sign that there is confidence in the waterfront development and a desire to live in Granton. That augurs well for the future transformation of the harbour area.”