Imagine a beloved TV show's iconic police station being torn down to make way for a shiny new development. That's exactly what's on the table in Edinburgh right now. The City of Edinburgh Council is considering plans to demolish Argyle House, the brutalist 1960s building that served as the exterior for the police headquarters in Netflix's gripping drama Dept Q. But here's where it gets controversial: while some see this as an opportunity for urban renewal, others mourn the loss of a unique (if divisive) piece of the city's architectural history. And this is the part most people miss—Argyle House isn't just a TV backdrop; it's also home to tech hub CodeBase and has ties to Irvine Welsh's Crime series. So, what's the future of this polarizing structure? Let's dive in.
The proposed plans, outlined in a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) submitted to the council, envision replacing Argyle House with a "mixed-use" development. Think a hotel, residential apartments, office spaces, and retail areas—a modern facelift for the area near Edinburgh Castle. But before you start picturing cranes and construction, public consultations are set for December 2025 and January 2026, giving locals a chance to weigh in. Is this progress or preservation? That's the question sparking debate.
Built between 1966 and 1969, Argyle House has long been a lightning rod for architectural criticism, often dubbed one of Edinburgh's least attractive buildings. Yet, its role in pop culture is undeniable. Not only did it star in Dept Q, but its front also doubled as the headquarters for the fictional Lothian Police in Crime. Meanwhile, its rear annexe on Johnston Terrace houses CodeBase, a tech workspace that played a role in Dept Q's Edinburgh-based storyline.
Here’s a fun fact: Dept Q was originally set in Copenhagen, based on Danish author Jussi Adler-Olsen's books, but the series relocated to Edinburgh for its Netflix adaptation. The show, starring Matthew Goode as DCI Carl Morck, has already been greenlit for a second season, proving its popularity. So, does demolishing its iconic backdrop feel like erasing a piece of TV history?
The building's ownership adds another layer to the story. Sold to US firm PGIM Real Estate for £38 million ($47 million) in 2023, Argyle House is currently leased to Telereal Trillium, who sublet it to CodeBase until 2033. A CodeBase spokesperson assured users there’s "no immediate impact," but acknowledged they’re exploring long-term options, whether at Argyle House or elsewhere. Should cultural significance outweigh architectural appeal? Or is it time to make way for something new?
As Edinburgh residents and fans of Dept Q alike await the council's decision, one thing’s clear: this isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about balancing progress with preservation, and deciding what stories—both fictional and real—deserve to endure. What do you think? Is demolishing Argyle House a step forward or a step too far? Let us know in the comments!
