Dr Scott Arthur MP Visits Curtins Edinburgh to Highlight Partnership, Innovation & Breaking Down Barriers
Curtins, the UK engineering consultancy, was pleased to welcome Dr Scott Arthur MP, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh South West, to its Edinburgh offices last week. The visit underscored the shared commitment of Curtins and Dr Arthur to inclusive, sustainable infrastructure and to breaking down barriers to opportunity.
Curtins’ Edinburgh office, offers a broad range of engineering services for the built environment, including civil and structural engineering, transport planning, geo-environmental and infrastructure work, and geotechnical.
Recent projects in Edinburgh that showcase their expertise include:
Nucleus Building, University of Edinburgh — part of the redevelopment of the King’s Buildings Campus, incorporating lecture theatres, study and laboratory space over four levels.
Haymarket Yards Student Accommodation, L&S Edinburgh Ltd –a new 156 bed student accommodation in a tight site adjacent to the railway line in Edinburgh, built over two large sewers.
Cancer Bridging Project at the Western General Hospital, NHS Lothian – a variety of refurbishment and new build projects as part of the overall cancer bridging project, including LINAC, Haematology and Renal.
Curtins is also well known locally for its work in sustainable design, digital delivery, modern methods of construction (MMC), and tall buildings, along with a sensitive approach to the conservation and restoration of heritage structures.
Dr Scott Arthur was elected as MP for Edinburgh South West in July 2024. He previously served as a councillor in the city, where he was convener for transport and environment. In that role, he championed sustainable transport projects, including the proposed north–south tram link, and played a leading part in local environmental debates.
Dr Arthur’s background in infrastructure and engineering gives him a strong understanding of both the technical and societal aspects of development.
Dr Scott Arthur MP commented: “My visit to Curtins last week was a great opportunity to hear about the company’s work in Edinburgh and across Scotland. The team showed fantastic commitment to the development of sustainable infrastructure, and it was encouraging to see a company dedicated to the inclusion and support of new talent through their Graduate Academy program. I am proud to have Curtins in Edinburgh South West.”
Janice Smith, Director of Curtins Edinburgh, added: “We were delighted to welcome Dr Scott Arthur MP to our Edinburgh office. His expertise and passion for infrastructure and equitable development align closely with our own mission. The visit was a valuable opportunity to share our work and discuss how engineering can deliver sustainable, inclusive spaces across the city.
Rhiannon Carss, Board Director for Culture and Engagement, said: “At Curtins, we believe engineering should be open and accessible to everyone. Through our work with The Purpose Coalition and its Breaking Down Barriers Commission, we are focused on widening access to the profession and creating opportunities across our industry. Dr Arthur’s visit was a welcome chance to share that mission and underline the importance of breaking down barriers so that talent from every background can thrive.”
The visit provided an opportunity to share ideas and perspectives on the future of infrastructure and community development in Edinburgh. It also highlighted the importance of collaboration between industry and policymakers to ensure projects are sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to local people.