'Disappointment' as work progresses at historic Leith dock without planning permission

Local residents and conservation groups have expressed frustration and disappointment after work was undertaken on a historic dock in Leith before planning permission was granted.

Forth Ports has erected fencing panels along the side of the Albert Dock in Leith, replacing the original chains which acted as a barrier.

They have said that it is a health and safety matter as the work is in response to a young child having fallen in the water in that area back in October.

Wednesday 30th of December 2020: Workmen replace bollards and chains on the edge of the basin at Stevedore Place, in Leith Docks. Some residents have been upset at the replacement of the original bollards

An application for planning permission has been submitted to the City of Edinburgh Council but it has not been approved and no decision has yet been made.

Any work at the historic dock requires Listed Building Consent from the council.

Should the planning permission be denied, Forth Ports will be obligated to undo the work.

Jennifer Marlborough, secretary at the Leith Harbour and Newhaven Community Council said: “LHNCC is disappointed by the lack of engagement shown by Forth Ports and its approach to implementing these works.

Wednesday 30th of December 2020: Workmen replace bollards and chains on the edge of the basin at Stevedore Place, in Leith Docks. Some residents have been upset at the replacement of the original bollards

"There has been no consultation with the local community, including Albert Dock residents, who are keen to discuss more appropriate solutions.

"Work to alter the listed dockside started on the day residents received the notification of the applications for Planning and Listed Building Consent – in spite of the fact that the closing date for public comment is not until 29 January.

“There is potential for this work to set a precedent for piecemeal and hastily installed safety measures that are detrimental to the amenity and historic character of the dock basins (which are not all in the same ownership) and the wider Shore area.

“LHNCC believes that a more considered and strategic approach to improving safety should be adopted, and one that does not negatively impact on the character of the Old Leith and Shore Area.”

Work began on the area on Tuesday of this week despite complaints from residents at Stevedore Place which backs onto the south of Albert Dock.

One resident said: “It a major concern for us. It feels like they’re being reactive, not proactive.”

"It’s just mind blowing.”

Save our Shore Leith, a conservation group, added: “SOSLeith acknowledges the health and safety issues, which are not new, but is concerned if Forth Ports have not consulted residents and proper planning procedures have not been followed.”

A spokesperson from Forth Ports said: “Following the recent incident involving a young child who fell into Albert Dock, Forth Ports undertook an urgent health and safety review of the areas that the public have access to in and around the Port of Leith.

"This review identified that urgent attention was required to make the area around Stevedore Place safe. This work started this week.

"We have submitted a planning application to Edinburgh City Council but we are undertaking these safety measures as a matter of urgency. The Council are aware of our actions.

“The chain of the existing fence is being upgraded with bespoke panels that are in keeping with the surrounding environment and also which do not require modification to the dock edge or existing posts.

"All original materials removed will be safely stored.”

A City of Edinburgh Council spokesperson responded: “An application has been submitted to the Council which is still being considered with no decision taken yet.”

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