Demolition of flat block delayed following protest

The fate of a block of flats in Edinburgh, Westfield Court in Gorgie, remains uncertain as authorities have delayed making a final decision on whether to demolish the 73-year-old building.

Earlier this year, plans to renovate the block were rejected in favor of demolition after serious issues with waste pipes were identified. The councils housing committee faced protests on Tuesday, with demonstrators urging councillors to prioritize repairs over tearing down the building.

Housing officials will now examine concerns related to the proposed demolition before reaching a conclusion. A report released in June 2025 highlighted significant problems with the building's cladding, roof, and heating system, and noted that damage to the waste outflow pipes had become critical.

The report warned that, without intervention, the structurebuilt in 1952would continue to deteriorate, putting the concrete frame at risk and potentially leaving external panels insufficiently supported. Labour councillor and housing convener Tim Pogson described the building as presenting "significant physical risks."

Protesters countered that the council had been aware of these issues for years and argued that repairs should have been undertaken long before the property reached such a state of disrepair. Some tenants reportedly first learned about the demolition plans through media reports rather than direct council communication.

In the committee meeting, councillors supporting a joint SNP, Green, and Liberal Democrat position voted to instruct officers to further investigate multiple concerns surrounding the demolition. Meanwhile, a Conservative motion to proceed with the demolition while supporting flat owners was defeated.

Additional reporting by local democracy reporter Joe Sullivan.

Author: Sophia Brooks