David Campbell
Updated 15 May 2026, 10:17am
First published 15 May 2026, 8:12am
A huge apartment block scheduled for demolition three years ago remains standing after a single holdout resident refused to leave.
The-75 unit building sits next to an identical sister block that is also scheduled for demolition, with plans to erect a single, new 150-unit structure.
The 73-year-old Inchmickery Court building and neighbouring Oxcars Court building, located in Edinburgh, Scotland, have captured attention since the local council ordered residents to leave in 2023.
This apartment block is still standing after three years because a single resident refused to leave. Picture: Google Maps
But while Oxcars Court still contains 68 residents while alternative accommodation is found, Inchmickery Court remains standing thanks to the single resident whose family say will not leave until his demands for alternative accommodation are met.
The block is meant to be demolished so a new apartment building can be built. Picture: Google Maps
A relative of the holdout tenant, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Sun the man had their full support and the situation was “absolutely shocking”.
“I think it’s ridiculous. He’s worked all his life and paid his rent – why should he have to leave,” they said.
“If he is evicted and doesn’t leave willingly, he might not get another council house because he’s wilfully made himself homeless.
“He would sleep in a tent if he has to stand his ground.
Two 75-apartment buildings are meant to make way for a single 150-apartment block. Picture: Google Maps
“It’s an absolute joke – if they want to decant you, you should be able to decide where you want to go.”
Nearby neighbours have also supported the man’s refusal to leave the 10-strorey building and fear for his safety but Edinburgh Council claims it is pushing on with eviction proceedings.
“There is one remaining tenant in the block, so essential services are being maintained while the eviction process proceeds through the Sheriff Court,” a council document read.
“Officers from the High-Rise Management and Investment (HRMI) team are in regular contact with the locality team to help support this process as required.
The holdout resident has received widespread support from his family and the public. Picture: Google Maps
“Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is aware that Inchmickery Court is vacant with the exception of one residence, and the HRMI are meeting with the Tenant Safety Team to take a proportionate approach to the continued maintenance of this block.”
People learning of the dispute on social media were quick to support the tenant and his ongoing protest.
“All these new flats built for students … maybe should have prioritised for actual residents. Well done that man, stand your ground,” one person said.
“Don’t go until you get what you need. My cousin decanted out Inchmickery to a flat in worse condition then now into another flat that’s infested with bugs,” said another.
“I’d be standing my ground too, I wouldn’t be moved on until they got me where I wanted. They want to demolish therefore want me shifted, give me what I want then …. well done to this guy,” another person said.
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