Shanks Pier Pocket Park & Heritage Space
Burntisland Harbour

Shanks Pier, owned by Forth Ports, has been unused for several years. There is now strong local interest in exploring options for how the space could be brought back into community use.

The vision is to develop the pier gradually, through a phased approach, creating a space that balances heritage, nature, and community needs. Some of the ideas suggested so far include:

Installing containers as wind shelters

Adding picnic tables to encourage outdoor gatherings

Creating history boards to celebrate Burntisland’s heritage

Setting up areas for birdwatching and fishing

Highlighting the town’s natural heritage and biodiversity

To guide this process, community consultation is at the heart of the project. A survey was created (both online and in print) to gather views from local residents about how they would like the space to be used in the future. Printed copies were made available at the library, and responses could also be submitted online.

This project is being led by Burntisland Community Development Trust (BCDT) in partnership with Forth Ports, and with the support of local organisations including the Burntisland Heritage Trust and Central Burntisland Tenants & Residents Association (CBTRA). Their combined efforts are helping ensure that the future of Shanks Pier reflects both community aspirations and the town’s unique heritage.

The aim is to transform Shanks Pier into a welcoming, accessible public space where people can connect with Burntisland’s history, enjoy nature, and spend time together.