After the completion of Gilmerton junction, 1989 saw the finishing touches applied to Edinburgh’s new ring road – the A720 City Bypass. In the city centre, new developments included a new financial hub, Saltire Court, being constructed at the notorious Castle Terrace gap-site, and the city’s first ever purpose-built mosque in the Southside.
There was drama on the football pitch, too. Hearts came agonisingly close to reaching the UEFA Cup semis, narrowly losing out over two legs against German powerhouse Bayern Munich following a 1-0 win at Tynecastle.
Towards the end of the year, there was sadness. In October, the Guthrie Street gas explosion caused the collapse of a tenement, claiming the lives of 21-year-old student Nicola Donnelly and 35-year-old lecturer Peter Small.
Have a look through our photo gallery for a nostalgic trip back to 1989.
5. Hillwood quarry 1989
The workings at Hillwood quarry at Ratho/Newbridge near Edinburgh, October 1989. Photo: Alan Macdonald
6. Kylie Minogue in Edinburgh 1989
Australian pop singer Kylie Minogue smiles for the photographer before getting into her car in Edinburgh Airport in October 1989. Photo: Crauford Tait
7. Castle Terrace 'hole in the ground' 1989
Looking down into the notorious 'hole in the ground' at Castle Terrace in Edinburgh, September 1989. Photo: Rod Fleming
8. Archaos circus performers 1989
Two performers from the controversial French circus Archaos preview their Edinburgh Festival Fringe act in August 189. Photo: Joe Steele