Granton Waterfront Regeneration – Heritage and Place Programme
by Gillean Paterson
We were absolutely delighted to hear the official announcement of a £2.9m grant from Historic Environment Scotland and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This funding will support several important heritage sites in the area, including Madelvic House, the Lighthouse on West Shore Road, the old platform at Granton Station, and of course our own Walled Garden.
The Walled Garden is a special place that acts as a bridge between Granton’s past, present and future. Yet many people still don’t know it exists. We are only open for a few hours each week because we are entirely volunteer-run, and visitors often tell us they are surprised to find the entrance so tucked away. They are even more surprised by the peaceful haven inside, with its orchard, its history and its thriving kitchen garden.
Thanks to this funding, we will finally be able to restore the old gateway on Speirs Bruce Way. This will make a hug difference in helping people discover us. We hope to work with local secondary school students to design a replica 16th century door, which would be a wonderful way to involve young people in the garden’s story.
There will also be a new interpretive panel next to the entrance, with colourful illustrations and clear, engaging information about the site. This will act as a small outdoor museum that gives passersby a glimpse into the history behind the walls. A new entrance path will improve access too, especially since our current gate sits on quite a slope.
Some much-needed repairs to the old walls and the Doocot are also now possible, helping protect these historic structures for generations to come. Looking ahead, the Doocot could eventually become a small heritage hub or meeting space, and replacing the crumbling doors is the first step towards that future.
Everyone involved with the Walled Garden cares deeply about looking after this unique community asset. Having the support and funding to bring these plans to life, in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, is incredibly exciting and marks an important step forward for the whole Granton Waterfront area.
Photo: Historic Environment Scotland