Iconic Edinburgh building could be developed as hotel

One of Edinburgh's most iconic buildings - the former Donaldson's College at West Coates, Haymarket, is being put on the market with the potential of being developed as a five-star hotel.

Set on 18 acres of land and built in the 1840s by architect William Playfair, the building was once described by Queen Victoria as being "finer than some of my Scottish palaces."

Kevin Whitaker, director of joint venture company CALA Evans Restoration, the current owner of the property, said the site offers the potential to become a significant landmark development within the city.

"The nature of the Playfair building and its immediate environment is well suited for use as either a luxury destination resort or as one of the UK's most desirable residential addresses," said Whitaker.

CALA Evans Restoration contracted to buy Donaldson's College in 2004 for £22m. They took ownership of the property in 2008 and took forward planning permission for 63 apartments within the existing building and a further 72 to be built in the grounds. The property is currently being marketed through Savills.

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By Janet Harmer

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