Portobello Promenade set for a major revamp with new toilets, play area and seafront masterplan
“We want the seafront to be welcoming, accessible and comfortable for everyone, all year round”
Portobello Promenade is set to undergo a big transformation as Edinburgh council reveals plans to improve one of the Capital’s most popular seaside destinations.
The council has launched the Portobello Promenade Project, which will see investment in new public facilities, improved play areas and the creation of a long term masterplan to guide future development along the waterfront.
The project, stretching from Kings Place to Joppa, is being funded through Edinburgh's visitor levy investment programme and aims to make the promenade more accessible, welcoming and comfortable for residents and visitors all year round.
Among the proposed improvements are new toilets with changing facilities and showers, additional benches, bins, new signage and interpretation boards. The council also plans to improve Straiton Place Park and Towerbank Playground, creating a more inclusive environment for children and young people of all ages and abilities.
Alongside these upgrades, a masterplan will be put in place to help shape future investment and ensure the preservation of the seafronts history while meeting the needs of fast growing community.
Originally a Victorian seaside resort, Portobello has always had its own character and the town has since developed into one of Scotland's most popular coastal areas.
The council says the project will celebrate that heritage while introducing nature-friendly and coastal-appropriate design features. It also hopes the improvements will create new opportunities for local businesses and wellbeing activities.
Residents will have opportunities to help shape the proposals as the project develops, with community engagement planned in the coming months.
The council said previous consultations had already highlighted a need for investment along the promenade, with improved accessibility, better public amenities and enhanced public spaces identified as key priorities.
There is currently no timetable as to when construction will take place, however they will be running engagement activities as the project develops .
A council spokesperson said: “We're delighted to announce that the Portobello Promenade project is officially underway.
“This project will deliver new public toilets, playpark transformations, and a full masterplan for how this iconic seafront can be further improved and protected for years to come.
“This project will be funded by the new Edinburgh Visitor Levy. Later this summer, we’ll be conducting events and activities along the Promenade, speaking with local residents, businesses, community groups, and visitors to understand what matters most to you.”