Ocean Terminal is a buzzing new commercial centre, parallel to the quayside in Edinburgh’s Western Harbour. With its cosmopolitan mix of retailers, quayside restaurants, bars, cinemas and entertainment venues, the scheme provides 60,000 square metres of retail and leisure space, and demonstrates a fresh approach to commercial development.

A series of dramatic internal spaces include a three-storey rotunda and a grand hall overlooking the water. Offering sweeping views of the Firth of Forth, the hills of Fife and the Edinburgh skyline, Ocean Terminal uses its waterfront setting good effect, creating a series of flowing public spaces.

The retail and leisure development was completed over a contract period of 26 months, using a two-stage Design and Build with Staged Novation contract, completing in 2001. The scheme comprised 540,000 square feet gross retail space, a twelve-screen cinema, health club, visitor centre for Royal Yacht Britannia and 1,600 multi-storey car parking spaces. Work also included dock wall improvements and quayside enabling works and piling.

Anchored by BHS and Debenhams, together with 75 further stores, Ocean Terminal has now been further enhanced by subsequent residential development of the surrounding area, increasing footfall.

The strength of Davis Langdon’s contribution was twofold. We used a team of individuals who all brought specialist retail sector and retail-led regeneration experience. We prioritised positive relationships with our client and the other stakeholders involved, ensuring effective communication throughout.