Netflix's Dept Q building plans unveiled in Edinburgh

New visualizations have been released showcasing the planned transformation of a notable Edinburgh building featured in the Netflix drama Dept Q. Argyle House, located on West Port near Edinburgh Castle, is set to potentially be replaced by a mixed-use development incorporating a hotel, residential units, office spaces, and retail facilities.

The 1960s brutalist structure served as the exterior for the police station in the popular streaming series. According to a consultation document from developer Hendersonherd, the redevelopment plans are being explored ahead of the current lease expiration in 2033 to ensure the site continues to contribute economically to the city.

The document stated: "The headlease over the building will expire in 2033, but current tenants are unaffected by these proposals. Ongoing assessments indicate that the building is nearing the end of its practical lifespan and no longer satisfies modern requirements."

However, local architect Malcolm Fraser criticized the plan, calling it "madness" in light of the climate crisis and the environmental impact of demolishing a solid structure, noting the vast amounts of embodied carbon involved. Fraser emphasized that Argyle House is a significant example of modernist architecture and contributes to Edinburgh's unique character, especially in how it steps back at the junction of West Porta design element aligned with Patrick Geddes urban planning philosophy of "letting some light in."

Constructed between 1966 and 1969, Argyle House has often been regarded as one of Edinburgh's less aesthetically pleasing buildings. In 2023, it was sold to US firm PGIM Real Estate for around 38 million. Originally designed for local and national government offices, it now accommodates various businesses.

The buildings front also served as the fictional Lothian Police headquarters in ITVs Crime, written by Irvine Welsh. The rear annex on Johnston Terrace, home to tech workspace CodeBase, appeared in Dept Q as well. The series, which was initially set in Copenhagen, was relocated to Edinburgh for filming. Netflix recently confirmed the return of the series for a second season, starring Matthew Goode as DCI Carl Morck of the cold case unit.

Telereal Trillium, which leases the facility for CodeBase from PGIM, maintains a lease until 2033.

Author: Ethan Caldwell