A fascinating throwback to the 1990s has emerged with a vintage video clip showcasing the Edinburgh scheme of Niddrie and Craigmillar. The footage, filmed in 1998 by Billy McKirdy while studying an HNC in Public Arts Project Management, offers a glimpse into the area’s past. McKirdy’s intention was to document the streets before much of the existing housing was demolished, preserving a visual record of the neighbourhood.
The video, captured from a moving car window, navigates through residential streets, showcasing iconic local landmarks such as The White House and the Castle Tavern. The Castle Tavern was known for its unique feature of a three-legged German Shepherd that would bark at passers-by from the rooftop. The clip also features bygone shops like Kwik Save, a familiar sight before the chain closed its doors in 2007.
Craigmillar Castle makes an appearance in the footage, maintaining its centuries-old look from then to now. The quiet streets, with fewer cars and pedestrians, coupled with the grainy quality of the video, evoke a sense of nostalgia for longtime residents of Niddrie and Craigmillar. McKirdy reflects on the changes in the area over the years, noting the shift from predominantly social housing to a more diverse mix of public and private residences.
He remarks on the disappearance of council housing, changes in street layouts and names, and the absence of familiar faces that once populated the community. Despite acknowledging positive aspects of the housing transformation, McKirdy expresses a profound sense of nostalgia for the past. He is now involved in creating a digital archive of Craigmillar’s history through the Craigmillar Now project.
The footage serves as a poignant reminder of a bygone era for those who have witnessed the evolution of Niddrie and Craigmillar. As the community adapts to changing landscapes and demographics, McKirdy’s visual record stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the neighbourhood.