Abandoned Edinburgh bowling club could become luxury family home despite local concern

The historic Edinburgh Tramways Bowling Club could be converted into a luxury new home - despite an online petition by local residents.

The City of Edinburgh Council recently validated the proposal to convert the bowling club and clubhouse at 54 Rosslyn Crescent into a huge plush residence.

The building that houses Tramways Bowling Club, was built in 1888, to serve the drivers and workers of the nearby tramway depot but the bowling club itself was not formed until the early 20th century.

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Edinburgh Live previously reported that local residents wanted to turn the space into a community garden when it closed down, due to declining membership.

However, the then landlords at Lothian Buses vetoed their plans and decided to place it onto the property market.

The Tramways Community Garden started an online petition to try and save one of the city’s oldest bowling greens and keep the space for local people, but ultimately the property was sold off.

The property was listed for sale last year by Novaloca at £120,000, and the prospect of a residential dwelling did not seem to be on the agenda at that juncture.

The estate agent’s listing was aimed toward the leisure markets and mentioned the clubhouse was capable of taking 40 diner covers.

It said: “This unique leisure opportunity comprises the former Tramways Bowling Club, which was incorporated in 1888 to serve the drivers and engineers of Edinburgh’s original tram line.

“The property benefits from a fully fitted clubhouse comprising a licensed bar accommodating approximately 40 covers, along with additional kitchen, office and changing room facilities.

“In addition, the subjects include a large self-contained external area, which originally accommodated the bowling green.

“The property would be expected to suit alternative leisure uses, subject to obtaining the required statutory consents.”

Available at only £120,000 it appears that someone thought the old bowling club might be ideal for a residential dwelling, and the building was bought in January last year.

The City of Edinburgh Council will now decide on the application in the coming weeks.