Edinburgh marina increases capacity thanks to six-figure loan from HSBC UK
by Catriona Conway-Mortimer 27 Sep 2021 04:30 PDT
Port Edgar Marina is expanding thanks to six-figure funding from HSBC UK © Port Edgar Marina
An Edinburgh marina has been supported with a six-figure loan from HSBC UK to renovate a derelict area of space to enable it to increase its berth count and accommodate larger yachts.
Formerly a naval base, South Queensferry's Port Edgar Marina is using the funding to dredge a disused part of the marina and reinstate the old navy pier as demand for moorings has grown considerably since the start of the pandemic.
Once the revamped area is complete, Port Edgar Marina will be able to increase its mooring spaces from 320 to 370. It will also be able to accommodate yachts over 100ft - up from the current maximum length of 50ft.
Russell Aitken, Managing Director of Port Edgar Holdings, said: "Boat ownership has skyrocketed over this last year and a half, and we're currently operating at capacity. Not only will this funding from HSBC UK help us to expand our business by offering more berths to customers, but it will also open up opportunity for us to berth much larger yachts that pass through the Firth of Forth, allowing their passengers to come ashore."
Husband-and-wife directors of Port Edgar Holdings, Russell and Cara Aitken, took over managing the marina from Edinburgh Leisure after winning a tender in 2014. The couple and their team have been working to transform it into a visitor destination ever since.
Natalie Marshall, Relationship Director at HSBC UK, added: "Port Edgar Holdings has made great progress in making the marina a real destination. With fantastic views of all three bridges, eateries and sailing schools, the marina is now a popular destination for the local community and tourists alike."
Located between the Forth Road Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing, Port Edgar Marina sits less than 30 minutes outside of Edinburgh city centre. The marina, which is home to a sailing club and a wide range of water sports activities, has seen a growth in footfall over the past few years following continued investment in its surrounding buildings, as well as the opening of the 200 cover licenced restaurant Scott's.