The park within the frame, created with funding from the Scottish Government, opened to the public on 21 December. The 1.2-hectare park features six different zones, including three play areas. An inner ring walk allows visitors to explore the park, with plenty of places to sit and relax. An outdoor exhibition showcases the history of the Granton gasworks and the restoration process.
Large 'Gas Holder 1' lettering at the entrance provides a great photo opportunity. The official park opening will take place in Spring 2025, when the 'art zone' will display the winning community-led art piece.
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Depute Leader, the City of Edinburgh Council, Mandy Watt, said: "Gas Holder 1 and the new park sit right at the heart of our £1.3bn regeneration of Granton Waterfront. I'm really excited we've reached this milestone before the year ends and look forward to the official opening of the park next year. It's now open so I'd encourage local people to go and check out this fantastic new green space for the area as well as 'Gas Holder 1', which will light up the sky for everyone to enjoy in time for the festive season."
Investment Minister Tom Arthur said: "This project demonstrates the benefits of regenerating derelict sites into places people can visit and enjoy. The new park will offer a vibrant and accessible space for the local community which will attract more visitors into Granton to support local spend.
"To help communities prosper we have allocated an extra £62.15 million towards regeneration in next year's draft Budget. This will benefit people throughout Scotland by supporting projects including the revitalisation of green spaces, town centres and derelict sites."
Graham Brown, Senior Contracts Manager at McLaughlin & Harvey, added: "We're delighted to have completed this unique restoration project and handed it over to our client, The City of Edinburgh Council. In deconstructing the old bell, refurbishing the listed steel structure, and repainting the frame, we have solved complex engineering challenges by using our vast civil engineering experience and successfully collaborating with our client and supply chain partners. We are looking forward to joining the official opening celebrations next year."
