Changing Places toilet proposed for Shore Road at Port Edgar

A new modular Changing Places toilet could be installed near Shore Road in South Queensferry, adding a public accessibility facility close to the Port Edgar waterfront.

The planning application is for land 10 metres south-west of 17 Shore Road. The proposal would place a prefabricated toilet unit on a concrete base and connect it to drainage and utilities.

Changing Places toilets are larger accessible toilets designed for people who cannot use standard accessible WCs. They typically provide more space and specialist equipment for disabled people and their carers. For a waterfront location used by residents, visitors, boat users and families, the practical effect would be a small but potentially important public amenity upgrade.

What is proposed

The application seeks permission for the erection of a prefabricated modular Changing Places toilet facility.

The works include:

• installing a modular toilet unit;
• forming a concrete base;
• providing drainage connections;
• providing utility connections.

The proposal is categorised as a public realm and community project. It is not a large building scheme, but it is notable because it concerns accessibility and public facilities in a prominent part of South Queensferry’s waterfront.

The applicant is listed as Mr James Rhys-Davies. The agent is Wham Architecture, represented by Scott Wham.

The site near Shore Road

The application site is described as land 10 metres south-west of 17 Shore Road, Queensferry, South Queensferry. It sits close to Port Edgar, one of the best-known waterfront areas in the town.

Shore Road is part of the route through South Queensferry’s historic waterfront, linking local homes, businesses, leisure uses and access to the harbour area. A new toilet facility in this setting would be visible to people moving through the area and could affect how visitors experience the waterfront.

The weekly planning list identifies the site as being within the Cramond Conservation Area and notes a Category B listed context. That means the council’s assessment is likely to consider how the unit would sit within its surroundings, as well as the practical need for the facility.

Why it matters

Public toilets are a basic piece of civic infrastructure, but their location and accessibility can make a significant difference to who can comfortably use public places.

A Changing Places facility is intended for people whose needs are not met by a standard accessible toilet. In busy visitor areas, the presence or absence of this type of facility can shape whether disabled people, carers and families are able to spend time there.

For South Queensferry, the proposal is worth watching for three reasons.

First, it is in a waterfront location. Port Edgar and Shore Road attract local users as well as visitors, so even a modest facility can have a wider public impact.

Second, it is a standalone modular structure rather than an internal alteration to an existing building. That makes the siting, appearance, servicing and access arrangements relevant planning considerations.

Third, the application involves new drainage and utility connections. These are routine for a toilet installation, but they are part of what the council will need to assess before any decision is made.

What the council will consider

The application is currently marked as awaiting assessment. The City of Edinburgh Council will assess the proposal through the normal planning process.

For a scheme of this kind, the likely planning questions include how the unit would fit into the local streetscape, whether its siting is appropriate for pedestrians and nearby uses, and whether the necessary servicing and infrastructure can be accommodated.

Because the site is in a sensitive waterfront setting, design and visual impact may also be part of the assessment. The proposal is not described as a major development, but small public-realm structures can still matter in conservation or heritage settings.

The application was received and validated on 16 April 2026. A site notice was posted on 1 May 2026, and the application was advertised on the same date. The deadline for public comments is listed as 22 May 2026.

How to view or comment

Residents, nearby businesses and other interested parties can view the application on the City of Edinburgh Council planning portal.

Search the portal using planning reference 26/01618/FUL.

The application address is: Land 10 metres south-west of 17 Shore Road, Queensferry, South Queensferry.

The relevant community council is listed as Queensferry & District Community Council. A decision has not been issued.