The survey arrives as part of the next phase of The City of Edinburgh Council’s 20-Minute Neighbourhood strategy, which is looking to provide better access to local facilities and services across the city.

Edinburgh’s town centres are populated by small, independent businesses and provide many of the facilities and services that people need easy access to.

People can now share their thoughts on how Portobello town centre could be improved either online or in person at Portobello Library. The online survey is available until mid-April, where people can identify specific parts of the local area that could be improved. Paper copies of the survey and feedback cards are available to fill in and submit by the community board at Portobello Library.

The survey is an initial opportunity for people to give their views. It will inform the development of an initial plan for how the town centre could be improved, from which the Council will continue to work with the local community and businesses as this develops.

Councillor Scott Arthur, transport and environment convener, said: “We know our town centres like Portobello have many of the essential local facilities and services we value but could be much more liveable and pleasant places for both residents and visitors. We want to work with the local community and businesses to develop a plan that will encourage people to access the high street via active and sustainable travel and increase the quality of public spaces in the area.

“This all ties into our plans to reshape our transport network in order to cut congestion and reach net zero by 2030. Portobello town centre provides vital local services to communities across the east of Edinburgh and beyond, and we want to hear from everyone who uses the area. This is an initial opportunity for people to work with us and make sure their views shape the approach used to understand how the town centre could be better for them, however they use it.”

Nico Ferguson, senior grant advisor for Sustrans, added: “Safe, convenient, and accessible links with local amenities, such as supermarkets, schools, and leisure facilities, are an essential part of any bustling community. By improving walking, wheeling, and cycling links along Portobello High Street, we hope to make this a reality for everyone.

“We look forward to hearing the views of the local community and strongly encourage everyone who can to take part.”

The 20-Minute Neighbourhood strategy was launched in June 2021. Its vision is to enable a net zero Edinburgh where everyone can live well locally.

The city needs this level of ambition to achieve a significant shift towards sustainable transport. Increased walking, wheeling cycling and using public transport can all help to cut congestion and reduce emissions. It will help to create more social, inclusive and accessible places. This will also support physical and mental wellbeing and help to end poverty in Edinburgh.

The City of Edinburgh Council has been awarded Places for Everyone funding to develop a concept design for an improved Portobello high street. Places for Everyone is an active travel infrastructure fund backed by the Scottish Government and administered by Sustrans. The Places for Everyone programme provides support and expertise to help deliver walking, wheeling, and cycling improvements across the country.