Norton Park achieves 100% occupancy as demand for charity space surges
Office spaces at Edinburgh’s leading charity hub have now been filled, marking a major milestone in the city’s third sector landscape.
Norton Park, a specialist office and conference centre based in Leith, has reached full capacity for the first time, underlining its position as the go-to base for charitable organisations in Edinburgh.
The final space was taken by Richmond’s Hope, a charity that supports children and young people dealing with bereavement, which has now completed its move into its new purpose-designed unit.
Established as a central hub for third sector organisations, Norton Park is currently home to 23 charities and three not-for-profit co-working tenants, providing high-quality space and services at reduced rates to help tenant organisations reinvest more in frontline support.
Keith Robertson, CEO of Norton Park, said: “Reaching 100% capacity is a major moment for us. It shows there is huge demand for quality, affordable space tailored for charities.
“We’re proud to provide an environment where organisations can thrive and where collaboration is baked into the everyday working culture. Having every unit filled is not just a win for Norton Park, but a boost to Edinburgh’s entire third sector.”
Richmond’s Hope, which began in 2003 in Craigmillar, provides specialised grief support for children and young people aged four to 18. Its new base in Norton Park will serve as the main Edinburgh hub, with additional sites in Glasgow, East Lothian and Fife.
The move also marks a symbolic shift for the charity, which recently vacated its original home at Richmond Craigmillar Church after more than two decades.
Samantha Harrison, Bereavement Coordinator at Richmond’s Hope, said: “Norton Park offered us more than just a new office. Being surrounded by like-minded organisations and part of a wider charity network is incredibly valuable.
“There’s a quiet anonymity for the families we support – it means they don’t feel labelled or singled out. And for our team, the opportunity to connect and collaborate with other charities in the building is a huge plus.”
As part of its model, Norton Park offers purpose-built office and conference spaces, communal areas, and access to tenant events and wellbeing activities, including yoga, shared lunches and peer networking.
The centre also has a large office dedicated to co-working. This space enables small charities and social enterprises to rent a desk, meaning they can be part of the Norton Park hub but remain agile and keep overheads low.
Longstanding tenants say the value of being based in Norton Park goes well beyond the bricks and mortar.
Ally Irvine, Chief Executive of Ecas, said: “We’ve been based here for 17 years, and what sets this place apart is the sense of shared purpose. As charity that supports people with physical disabilities, it’s not just the accessibility, facilities or the affordability - though those are vital - it’s the everyday interactions, the mutual support, and the chance to collaborate with organisations facing similar challenges.
“Being part of Norton Park has genuinely strengthened the way we deliver our services.”
The achievement follows recent recognition from independent property consultants, who confirmed that Norton Park offers rent and services between 50-80% below local market rates. The same report highlighted the centre’s exceptional standards and welcoming environment.
With its new tenant in place, Norton Park plans to continue evolving, exploring new initiatives that will further enhance the working lives of its third sector occupants.
