A historic Edinburgh building may be transformed under new plans for townhouses.
The old production block at Madelvic House, which sits on Granton Park Avenue, has stood for over 130 years and is believed to be the earliest purpose-built motor works in Britain.
The building was the original site of The Madelvic Motor Carriage Company, founded in 1898 by William Peck.
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It came just as electricity was becoming more commonplace, and the factory produced an ‘electric brougham’ with a motor which sat behind the axle and propelled the car.
Electric cars didn’t quite get the push they needed – and the business folded in 1912. The factory was used for storing torpedoes during the First World War.
The former production block at Madelvic House
The site was abandoned and left to the elements for many years. It was awarded a Category B listed status due to its historic significance.
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In 2021, The National Transport Trust erected a heritage plaque on Madelvic House.
The proposals would see 28 townhouses constructed on the land, with alterations made to the house itself. Most of the properties would be three bedroom homes.
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In 2023, urban explorers made their way into one of the abandoned structured on the grounds. The team made their way into the structure, noting the ‘vandalism and destruction’ that has taken place in it over the years.
Plans are yet to be approved by Edinburgh Council.