Edinburgh Council Greenlights Portobello Police Station Revamp

Plans have received approval from the City of Edinburgh Council to transform the former Portobello Police Station into a community hub. This decision follows a sustained campaign by the community group Action Porty, which emerged in response to Police Scotland’s intent to dispose of the building in 2024.

The approved project will change the classification of the police station from “class 4 former police station” to “sui generis community use.” According to planning documents, the new hub aims to offer a variety of facilities including public function rooms, art studios, gallery space, private offices, and retail areas.

Community-Driven Vision

Action Porty, known for its efforts to repurpose other significant buildings in Portobello for community benefit, has expressed its commitment to restoring the civic function of the site. The group is in the process of acquiring the property from Police Scotland, stating their ambition to create a vibrant community hub.

The planning documents detail a multi-phase approach that will adapt to the evolving needs of the local community. “This application covers the change of use from Sui Generis – Police Station to Sui Generis – Community use,” the documents read. The initial phase outlines a hub featuring offices for community benefit organizations, public event spaces, artists’ studios, and a gallery.

Blueprints submitted with the application illustrate plans for various spaces, including meeting rooms, a reading room, and artist studios. The majority of the ground floor is intended to be publicly accessible, while quieter areas will be located on upper floors, with a lift proposed for future installation.

Historical Significance

Constructed in 1878, the Portobello Police Station at 118 Portobello High Street has a rich history, having served multiple roles in the community. It functioned as the municipal center for Portobello, operating as a public library, registrar, and magistrates’ court before its most recent use as a police station. The building’s historical significance adds another layer to the community’s desire to repurpose it into a space that benefits local residents.

The plans were initially submitted on November 26 and received official approval from city planners two days ago. As of now, it remains unclear when the renovation work will begin. Action Porty has been contacted for further comments regarding the next steps in this ambitious project.