Scottish Architecture… Leith Tower.

Infamous Leith tower block pair in-line for listing

November 11 2016

A pair of Leith tower blocks immortalised in Trainspotting could become Edinburgh’s newest listed buildings following the launch of a consultation exercise by Historic Environment Scotland.

Best known as the home of ‘Sick Boy’ from Trainspotting Cables Wynd House, colloquially known as the banana flats owing to its curvaceous profile, the building could soon become recognised for its architectural qualities should it be listed alongside the neighbouring Linksview House.

Residents of both blocks, predominantly owned by City of Edinburgh Council, are being asked their views as part of the listing process.

Historic Environment Scotland’s deputy head of listing, Dawn McDowell said: “Cables Wynd House and Linksview House were innovative, ground-breaking designs at the time when they were built and offered a new vision for social housing and for those who lived in them.

“A key aim of listing is to recognise the special architectural importance of these buildings as well as celebrating and sharing their wider social and cultural role.”

An informal drop-in session will be held on 6 December at Leith Library, Ferry Road, between 16:00 and 19:00.