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Summary

Description

Circa 1806. Pair of tall, octagonal-plan, ashlar gatepiers with octagonal caps, located to the south of the swing bridge (see separate listing) at Dock Place, Leith.

The gatepiers are flanked by sections of tall, stugged ashlar wall with rounded copes. There is a pedestrian opening within the east side. The section of wall to the west is curved.

Statement of Special Interest

The gatepiers and adjoining wall to the south of the swing bridge (see separate listing) at Dock Place are a surviving remnant of the former perimeter of the gated docks at Leith, the first of its kind in Scotland. The gatepiers and adjoining wall contribute to our understanding of 19th century dock construction as well as forming part of a wider group of industrial and maritime landmarks at Leith, then the most advanced port in Scotland. The large size and uniformity of the gatepiers represent security. The contextual and visual relationship with the adjacent swing bridge spanning the entrance to the former East Dock adds to the interest of the gatepiers.

The former docks were built by John Rennie at the advent of the modern industrial period (circa 1801-6). Rennie was one of Britain's foremost civil engineers during the early 19th century, following the death of John Smeaton in 1792 and before Thomas Telford rose to prominence by 1820. Born in Scotland and based in London from 1792, Rennie became nationally renowned for his innovative and pioneering early 19th century dock and harbour works.

The gatepiers were previously listed as part of LB 27061. Change of category from B to C, 2015.

References

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