Why Dundee should get its own container park

What a container park at the site of the old oil refinery on Market Street could look like!

Dundee has never been short of bold ideas. From its industrial past to its transformation into a modern cultural city, it has consistently found ways to reinvent itself.

Now, as cities across the UK experiment with new retail and hospitality concepts, the rise of container parks presents another opportunity - and one that Dundee feels uniquely suited to embrace.

Container parks are still a relatively new concept in the UK, but their appeal is growing fast. Built using repurposed shipping containers, these spaces bring together independent food vendors, small retailers and creative businesses in one shared location.

Glasgow is the latest city set to introduce one along the River Clyde, reflecting a wider trend seen across major cities where flexibility, affordability and community-focused spaces are becoming more important than ever.

For Dundee, the concept is not entirely unfamiliar. The city already has a foundation in modular, design-led spaces through developments like the District 10 business park at Seabraes.

These structures have shown that Dundee can successfully integrate modern, flexible architecture into its landscape while supporting creative and independent businesses. A container park would feel like a natural extension of that approach rather than something entirely new.

The timing also feels right. Street food culture is continuing to grow in popularity, with more people seeking out unique, local dining experiences over traditional chains. Dundee’s emerging street food scene, including the upcoming new market on Brown Street, could act as a valuable testing ground for vendors looking to take the next step.

A container park would give these businesses a platform to grow without the high costs associated with permanent premises, helping to strengthen the city’s independent economy.

Beyond food and retail, container parks are increasingly being used as flexible event spaces.

Live music, DJ sets and pop-up performances are often at the heart of these venues, creating a social atmosphere that draws people in throughout the day and into the evening.

Dundee already has a successful multi-purpose venue in CANVAS, which has proven there is demand for this kind of experience.

Rather than competing directly, a container park could complement existing venues by offering a more informal, open-air option, broadening the city’s overall cultural offering.

Location would be key to making it work. The waterfront, particularly areas like City Quay, the old oil refinery on Market Street next to the future Eden Project site which was put up for sale in recent years; or along Riverside, stands out as the most natural fit. Many of the most successful container parks are located near water, where they benefit from scenic views and strong footfall.

Dundee’s waterfront redevelopment has already created a vibrant, attractive space, and a container park could add another layer of activity, encouraging people to stay longer and explore more of what the city has to offer.

Ultimately, a container park would not just be about food or retail - it would be about creating a space that reflects Dundee’s identity.

A place where independent businesses can thrive, where people can gather, and where the city continues to evolve in a way that feels authentic. With the right vision and location, it could become one of Dundee’s most exciting additions yet.