Silverknowes

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Silverknowes is a suburb in northwest Edinburgh, Scotland. The middle class neighbourhood holds the EH4 postcode and lies to the north of Davidson's Mains Village. The neighbourhood contains over 2000 homes, ranging in size from bungalow to semi-detached housing.

[edit] History

Historically, Silverknowes was characterised by its large farming areas, which dated back hundreds of years. In the early 20th century, land to the south was cleared to make way for a new railway line to Barnton. By the 1930s, Glasgow tenement constructers "McTaggart & Mickel" had begun development of the western areas. It proved successful and work resumed after the Second World War.

The Barnton line was later closed and a Safeway (now Somerfield) supermarket constructed on the former goods yard. Over time, the estate expanded eastwards, further reducing the size of the farmland. However, in the 1970s, the farm buildings were cleared and housing built. Nearby is Lauriston Farm restaurant, however this was constructed by a restaurant company in the later 20th century.

[edit] Amenities and Local Area

To the west of Silverknowes is the Barnton neighbourhood plus the historic Lauriston Castle and estate. There is also a small clutch of shops on Silverknowes Road, and large playing fields on Silverknowes Parkway. The Parkway itself is one of the main routes through the area, and it is bordered to the north by the 18-hole Silverknowes Golf Club. The golf course stretches to Silverknowes Beach, where there are excellent opportunities for walking, cycling and other activities.

It is possible to access the 18th-century Cramond Village via the western promenade, with views across the Firth of Forth to Fife. Silverknowes is well served by the Lothian and First bus networks, with six routes terminating in the area. There is also a night service to the area.

The local area is renowned for its schools, with Davidson's Mains Primary located in "The Village" and the Edinburgh Royal High School in Barnton. The neighbourhood also features a cycle route. From the top of Silverknowes Road, there are excellent unobstructed views to Fife.

[edit] Boundary Change

In 2006, there were plans to place Silverknowes in the new "Forth" local authority voting ward. This outraged residents, who felt it would lead to the breakup of Davidson's Mains as a community. Over 600 objections were sent by members of the community and various local establishments, and Silverknowes will now be placed in the "Almond" ward alongside Davidson's Mains, Barnton and Cramond.