THE VOICE OF PROPERTY

EDINBURGH was by far the hottest property location in Scotland in 2018 – interestingly, the EH6 postcode, which takes in Leith, notched up the highest number of residential transactions, making it the most active postcode in the city. With rising house values pricing many people out of traditional hotspots in Edinburgh and Glasgow,

Savills’ head of research in Scotland Faisal Choudhry, says 2019 could see new hotspots emerging in the peripheral areas of both cities.

“The south-east wedge of Edinburgh and the A1 corridor in East Lothian – notably places such as Tranent – are seeing an increased supply of new build developments, which coupled with good road and rail links, entice house buyers out of the city,” he says. “Similarly, the West Lothian corridor – taking in East and West Calder and Livingston - is also seeing the overspill from the city.

“In Glasgow, the M73 corridor has a plentiful supply of new build, which means places such as Gartcosh, Chryston, Bargeddie

and Baillieston are seeing more activity, particularly as they are commutable both east and west. New build provision is also increasing in the south side of Glasgow, with notable developments in Pollokshields. However, West Dunbartonshire and Stirling city area have had limited new build activity and house prices have risen accordingly. But in the north, the opening of the new Aberdeen bypass will lift towns and villages along the route,” he adds.

THE TASTE OF TOMORROW

TOP architects, engineers and designers have come together in London to build a ‘future city’ of over 60 buildings – made entirely from gingerbread. On display at the V&A Museum until January 6, 2019, the Museum of Architecture’s Gingerbread City is a veritable feast of city planning and includes everything from a cinema, library and school to a city farm, museum and stadium.

SHORE THING: Leith was among the most active postcodes for property sales in 2018.