Located on a sought after residential street in Edinburgh’s popular Southside, 12 West Savile Road offers a unique opportunity to acquire a substantial detached villa with exciting potential. Formerly part of the Royal Blind School, the property is currently vacant and provides a rare chance to reimagine a significant building in an established residential setting.
Extending to approximately 4,134 sq ft, this impressive south facing villa is currently classed as Class 8 Residential Institution use. While architectural drawings and CGI images are available to illustrate the potential to create a generous family home, it should be noted that planning permission has not been granted for change of use to a private residential dwelling, and any purchaser would need to obtain the appropriate consents. The CGIs are provided for illustrative purposes only.
The scale and layout of the property offer excellent flexibility, with the potential subject to consent to create three reception rooms, five bedrooms and multiple bathrooms, along with an expansive rear garden which also offers scope for extension. Off road parking further enhances the appeal. While the property would benefit from refurbishment, it represents an exceptionally versatile opportunity in one of Edinburgh’s most desirable neighbourhoods.
***Plans have been created for a wonderful family home consisting of a large kitchen/ sitting/ dining room, drawing room and additional sitting room/ playroom/ cinema on the ground floor, as well as a utility room and a useful WC. On the first floor, the proposal encompasses five large double bedrooms, three with ensuite bathrooms and the fourth and fifth with a jack and jill bathroom. There is a large garden accessed directly from the kitchen/ living space.***


***Buyers should also be aware that, due to the current use class and absence of residential planning consent, standard residential mortgage finance may not be available. Anyone intending to rely on borrowing is strongly advised to seek early guidance from their mortgage broker or financial advisor.***

***The property is currently designated as Class 8 Residential Institution use. Class 8 generally relates to buildings used for institutional residential purposes, such as care or supported accommodation, rather than a single private dwelling. The property does not currently benefit from planning permission for use as a private residence, and any change of use would require a formal planning application and the relevant consents being granted. Prospective purchasers are advised to make their own enquiries with the local planning authority regarding planning matters.***


12 West Savile Road currently has a rateable value of £10,300, with a proposed 2026 value of £9,700 as per the Scottish Assessors Association. The property is eligible for the Small Business Bonus Scheme, which offers up to 100% relief for properties with a rateable value of £12,000 or less. As the property is currently non-residential (C8 use), buyers will pay LBTT at commercial rates rather than higher residential rates, offering a significant saving.


Location
West Savile Road is located in Edinburgh’s desirable Southside, an area known for its attractive period architecture, vibrant community, and excellent connectivity. The property is particularly well placed for access to a broad range of local amenities and green spaces, making it an ideal setting for families and professionals alike.

Within a short walk, you’ll find the popular Newington and Cameron Toll areas, which offer an excellent selection of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and a large Sainsbury’s supermarket. The Royal Commonwealth Pool and Prestonfield Golf Club are also nearby, providing great leisure options.

The property sits within the catchment area for several highly regarded state and independent schools, including Sciennes Primary, St. Peter’s RC Primary, James Gillespie’s High School, and George Heriot’s School. The University of Edinburgh’s King’s Buildings and George Square campuses are both within easy reach, making this a sought-after location for academic professionals as well.

There are numerous public parks nearby including Holyrood Park, The Meadows, and Blackford Hill, all offering wide open spaces, scenic walking routes, and panoramic city views.

Transport links are excellent, with regular bus services connecting to Edinburgh city centre, which is approximately 2 miles away, and convenient road access to the City Bypass, Edinburgh Airport, and key commuter routes to the south and west.

This prime residential location offers the perfect balance of city convenience, access to nature, and a strong sense of local community.