Things shaping up for marina

Plans to transform Port Edgar Marina in South Queensferry into a visitor destination have received a boost with the news that a long-established antiques, art and furniture dealer is to relocate its business to the site.

Shapes Furniture, which attracts buyers from around the world, is preparing to move from its base at Sighthill in Edinburgh at the turn of the year. It will bring to an end more than 40 years of trading in the capital.

The Port Edgar Marina site, which lies in the shadow of the famous three bridges across the Firth of Forth, will become the company’s base for all its furniture, art and antique viewings and sales.

Its arrival marks a key point in the development of the marina into a major destination, which will combine its setting and reputation as a water sports hub with new attractions for visitors and shoppers.

News that Shapes Furniture has opted to move to the site follows recent confirmation that Buzzworks Holdings – which manages nine bar and dining venues across Ayrshire – is to run a new restaurant at the marina.

Russell Aitken, managing director at Port Edgar Marina, said: “Shapes Furniture is well known for its appreciation of quality, classic style and craftsmanship combined with a deep love for history.

“We are looking forward to an exciting new era at Port Edgar Marina, and are delighted that such a prestigious and well-known business is joining us on our journey.”

Ali Black of Shapes Furniture, which plans to hold a relocation sale next month, added: “We’re looking forward to moving to such an iconic setting, in a waterside development that will attract visitors from around the world.”