Dear Members of the Grange Association,

I hope this post finds you well.

My family and I procured the NHS Community Child Health office in May 2021 with the aim to respectfully restore the detached house to its original glory and splendour as a home. Before we purchased Number 10, we were competing against several commercial property developers with plans created for redevelopment into numerous flats. The house was to be split out into 4 flats. We are keen to do the exact opposite of this and convert this property back into a single multi-generational home.

As many in the area will be aware, the site was previously a NHS Community Child Health building. The property consists of an original Victorian villa, a detached garage and an outbuilding toward the rear. In total, it extends over approximately 0.15 hectares and has an unsightly single-storey rear extension. The Victorian villa is B-listed, demonstrating beautiful original features, within an important conservation area.

Externally, I am sure a few of you will have noticed we have already erected some scaffolding to prevent further damage and we have commissioned specialists for essential repair. There are large unkempt trees which will be tended to and replaced with greenery of greater diversity to form a well-balanced garden and ensure a level of privacy. Some of the smaller trees (including an apple and cherry tree) within the lawn space are showing age and neglect and require attention. The beautiful beech tree, in the South-East corner, will be preserved.

Internally, we are ensuring the barren office space is being lovingly restored to its original authentic domestic splendour and character. Where there are bare copper pipes, tunnelled wires, we hope to create an eco friendly household with original cornices, high ceilings and authentic features running throughout.

Conscious of global efforts, we are trying to reduce our carbon footprint; with the installation of renewable energies, minimise heat loss and the procurement of local sustainable recycled materials where feasible. The dwelling shall be a blend of modern and old architectural values

It is our objective, where possible, to use as many of the current palate of materials that are observable in the area. We want to maintain the tone and character that makes the Grange so prestigious and unique. It is also our aim to ensure that the building not only complements, but enhances the surroundings.

In summary, we would like to re-instate this villa, update and upgrade the internals, preserving the original boundary lines and retain the wealth of original features on display

We have submitted a formal planning application and welcome your thoughts and opinions.

The full application will be available on the Edinburgh city council website in time. It is yet to be processed but we felt important to post here initially for early notice.

Please do not hesitate to contact me or my family as we aim to restore this dilapidated commercial, mid-nineteenth century office into a 21st century multigenerational family home.