A major new £200 million hospitality and community development has been proposed for Edinburgh, as The Social Hub sets out plans for a second UK location following its launch in Glasgow last year.

The Amsterdam-based group, founded by Edinburgh-born Charlie MacGregor, is in advanced discussions over a plot at the former Fountain Brewery site in Fountainbridge. The land, which has remained unused for around two decades, forms part of the wider regeneration masterplan being delivered by Buccleuch Property and Cruden Homes. The broader scheme includes the construction of new homes, office and retail space, and landscaped public areas.

Planning documents submitted by Montagu Evans and Hawkins Brown outline a 560-bed hybrid facility, representing an investment of around £200 million and the creation of up to 100 jobs. The proposed accommodation mix features extended-stay rooms aimed at helping relieve pressure on Edinburgh’s housing market, hotel suites, and purpose-built student rooms. The plans also include coworking space for up to 300 people, community event areas, gym and wellness amenities, a restaurant and bar, and a fully accessible outdoor space.

The Social Hub has confirmed it will hold public consultation sessions in Fountainbridge in the coming weeks. Local groups will also be invited to visit the company’s operational Glasgow hub to better understand its approach and community impact.

Since opening in 2024, the Glasgow site has played a notable role in the evolution of the city centre’s ‘Golden Z’, contributing to the revitalisation of the lower end of Argyle Street. The venue has hosted a range of large-scale cultural events, including international comedy and film festivals, as well as initiatives such as The Better Society Academy, headlined by Scotland’s first minister John Swinney.

A certified B Corp, The Social Hub is widely recognised for its hybrid model that blends accommodation, coworking, cultural programming, and community-focused facilities. Its Glasgow hub stages more than 600 events annually, from cooking classes and skill workshops to film premieres and yoga sessions.

Charlie MacGregor, Founder & CEO of The Social Hub, said: “This is a very special moment for me; it’s something I’ve hoped for and worked towards for many years. Edinburgh is my home city and part of my DNA. This is an opportunity to give something back and help shape a bold, positive future for Fountainbridge. We always want the local community to help shape our hubs and would encourage anyone with views about our plans to share them.

“The success of Glasgow has shown what we can achieve in Scotland and I am so excited to see how we can make the same kind of impact in this wonderful city. The Social Hub is more than a place to stay – it’s a hub where people from all backgrounds come together, help create a better society, and achieve extraordinary things.”

Nick Waugh, Commercial Property Director at Buccleuch, said: “We are delighted to be working with The Social Hub to provide the last important piece of the approved masterplan and such a complementary use for the site.”