Designs revealed for new Portobello pier

The design, which includes a performance and live events space, cafe, meeting rooms and sports facilities, are part of plans to improve the area’s cultural offerings.

The pier’s predecessor, which opened in 1871, proved to be quite popular before storm damage led to spiraling operating costs and its eventual demolition in 1917.

The new pier would be built next to Pipe Street and is being been mooted by group Big Things on the Beach, who aim to promote Portobello as a space for public art.

Damian Killeen, from Big Things on the Beach, said: “Other cities around the world who are fortunate enough to have this kind of seafront invest in its development and improvement.

“I think there’s no doubt there would be strong support in Portobello and probably beyond for the idea of recreating a pier – especially a contemporary pier – something that would be a major visitor attraction.

“It is not really a question of support but more a question of who might be in a position to develop such a thing at present.

“From this point on, we will be looking at what the development possibilities are for some significant development on the promenade.”

The group is hoping to work with the City of Edinburgh Council, who own the promenade, to redevelop the area.

The architects behind the plans said they wanted to create a landmark which would attract beach lovers from across Edinburgh and beyond.

Graham Acheson, Big Things on the Beach trustee and associate at Smith Scott Mullan Architects, said: “The overall plan is for something iconic and contemporary.

“I think it’s one way of provoking conversation about that as a possible waterfront for the city – it’s about making the most of that as an asset.

“There are various organisations within Portobello that could make use of the pier. The initial feedback on the overall idea of improving the prom and possibly a pier has been positive.”