A rich history and a vibrant transformation
A Business Hub with Deep Community Roots
For over 30 years, Create has been more than just a provider of affordable business properties in Edinburgh. We are a supportive environment where businesses thrive, deeply rooted in our local community of Craigmillar.
Our Vision
Our vision is to cultivate the most supportive and affordable environment in Edinburgh for business owners to achieve their ambitions. We believe that our tenants’ success is our success, and we’re proud to offer a space and community where both local and global businesses can grow. Through continual investment in our site and services, and a commitment to sustainability, we’re helping to build a better future for business owners.
Niddrie Marischal School in the 1940’s
The School just before closing in the 2000’s
The old school now a thriving business centre
Our History: From Education to Enterprise
Create’s roots are deeply ingrained in the Craigmillar community in south-east Edinburgh. Our striking Category B Listed building was once Niddrie Marischal Secondary School, which first opened its doors in 1943. In 1995, the Craigmillar Opportunities Trust transformed the school into a space for training local people in the skills needed for employment and a hub for local start-ups, as part of a broader initiative to stimulate economic growth and regeneration in the area.
In 2000, the Craigmillar Opportunities Trust rebranded as Create and achieved Local Enterprise status three years later. Almost three decades on, the original ethos of teaching and supporting local businesses remains etched into our building’s history. Today, we are home to a diverse range of businesses, from small start-ups to large, long-established organisations, all contributing to the local economy.
Serving the Craigmillar Community
Craigmillar is a vibrant area in south-east Edinburgh, known for its strong community spirit and ongoing regeneration efforts. By providing affordable and flexible workspaces, Create plays a pivotal role in supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses, fostering economic growth, and contributing to the area’s revitalisation.
Why Choose Create for Your Business?
The Create Team
Lynne Westwood
Social Enterprise Executive
Previously, Lynne worked with the City of Edinburgh Council on community planning, economic development and partnerships with public and private sector partners. Lynn will be focusing on delivering Create’s Social Enterprise Charter.
Mary Paget
Finance Manager
An experienced accountant working across different sectors, Mary will be responsible for ensuring the good financial health of Create so we can reinvest funds into your work space, facilities and social enterprise projects.
Emma Marley
Marketing Executive
With over 20 years’ experience in marketing, communications and digital media, Emma’s focus will be to position Create Properties as a trusted and innovative hub for business whilst promoting community engagement through our social enterprise partners.
The Create Board
Susan Ireland
Business Pointer
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Vincent O’Donoghue
Chartered Surveyor (Retired)
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Andrea Nicholas
Green Tourism
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Castlebrae Business Centre
An iconic, characterful building offering a mix of office and studio spaces, Castlebrae sits in a thriving neighbourhood with convenient public transport and green space on your doorstep.
Peffer Place Industrial Units
Located just across the road, Peffer Place provides modern, functional industrial spaces ideal for logistics, production, or light manufacturing. Units here start from 500 sq ft and are available on full repairing and insuring (FRI) leases.
