After four years of dedicated work, the regeneration of Coalie Park in Leith is nearly complete. With only The Dock skatepark yet to open, the park has been transformed from an unwelcoming stretch of post-industrial land along the Water of Leith into a vibrant riverside destination. Today, it attracts a diverse mix of park users and wildlife, features colourful local art, and provides a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
A New Chapter: The Coalie Coalition
Building on this success, The Coalie Coalition is a new collaborative group bringing together local residents and community organisations to care for and maintain Coalie Park.
The Coalition meets on the third Thursday of every month, from 10:30am – 1pm, to take part in hands-on conservation and maintenance activities around the park’s exciting new features — including The Dock skatepark, the amphitheatre steps, the community mural, wildflower meadows, benches, planters, biomatrix platforms, and more.
So far, the Coalition has welcomed volunteers from community groups such as SOS Leith, The Citadel Youth Centre, The Edinburgh Wheels Project, and The Rock Trust, along with local residents who helped create the mural and Gaudí-inspired mosaic.
Opening Event Highlights
Our launch event on Wednesday, 15th October, was a great success. Attendees explored an information stall where they could share ideas and learn about the Coalition’s goals, joined an art corner inspired by Andy Goldsworthy’s natural creations, and took part in a lively session of practical volunteering.
Together, volunteers helped:
- Sweep leaves from paths and the skatepark
- Clean the mosaic artwork
- Plant bulbs and sow grass seed
- Weed and fill gaps between the setts around the mural
- Remove graffiti and litter
Get Involved
Our vision is for the Coalie Coalition to grow into a strong, friendly network of local people who take pride in keeping Coalie Park a welcoming, wildlife-friendly, and vibrant community space.
If you’d like to get involved, simply join one of our regular sessions — or contact Dan at the Water of Leith Conservation Trust for more information. Dates for your diary – 20th November and 18th December