FLB Group is a well-known manufacturer of stationery and lifestyle accessories.Innovations in production, changing consumer behaviour and oversees competitionmeans that the current facility is too large for current needs. FLB Group are lookingfor a smaller site in order to carry out their manufacturing and distribution functionsin the UK. Relocation will require capital funding and the business strategy is toredevelop the site for housing.

The site is the last remnant of the Thornybank Industrial Estate and represents anopportunity for redevelopment for new housing development. The site is surroundedby residential and community uses and is in close proximity to local schools andother amenities.

FLB Group submitted a Proposal of Application Notice to the Midlothian Councilwhich was registered on 31st October 2024. FLB Group are now consulting withthe community and local stakeholders on draft proposals.

An initial public exhibition was held on Wednesday 4th December 2024 andfeedback was gathered on the proposals from 19 members of the public. Today’sevent represents an opportunity to see how the project team has responded toinitial feedback. Key issues raised at the first event focused on the principle ofdevelopment, affordable housing provision, capacity of local schools and potentialtransport impacts. A response to these issues can be found in the updated masterplanand on the final Q&A exhibition banner.

FLB Group will market the site to understand the level of demand for futureemployment, industrial or commercial uses. This is required by the Council wherealternative uses are proposed on designated employment land. Ryden, our commercialproperty advisers have already considered that there will be limited market interestin the site for ongoing industrial use. An application for Planning Permission inPrinciple would then follow.

Alongside this consultation, the site has also been promoted for housing as part ofMidlothian Council’s Call for Sites which will inform the next Local Development Plan.

Please click on the exhibition banners below for more information and submit your feedback to us. Contact details can be found at the bottom of the page.