Chief Executive
Introductory message from new Chief Executive, Laurence
Dear colleague,
I wanted to drop you a message on my first day to say how delighted I am to join East Lothian Council and how much I look forward to working with you all to continue delivering high-quality services for local residents.
One of my first acts was to walk around John Muir House this morning to say ‘hello’ to colleagues across a variety of different teams. Their clear professionalism, expertise and commitment to East Lothian was hugely inspiring, as I begin to get to grips with my new role.
The breadth of responsibilities was a reminder too of just how many people rely on our services, day in day out.
There is no doubt that I join the council at an exciting time for both the county and the region. I am excited about playing my role - working with partners across the public, private and third sectors - to ensure East Lothian has a successful and sustainable future, that everyone can benefit from.
As I start on day one, I wanted to say a huge thanks to Lesley for her strong leadership as interim Chief Executive over the last few months. I have much to learn from Lesley and I am very grateful to her and the rest of the team for making me feel so welcome.
Wherever you are based, I look forward to meeting you over the coming weeks. I am going to try and get out and about as much as I can to see the excellent work you do first hand, as well as to hear from you about how we make this an even better place to work and deliver services.
Thanks again for making me feel so welcome.
Laurence
Interim Chief Executive Lesley Brown
The countdown to Easter is now underway and the combination of longer days and some recent sunshine is hopefully a sign that Spring is upon us!
As a council, we are always ready to respond – whether it is to service disruption caused by weather conditions – or other unforeseen events or emergencies.
A recent example of this was the fire in a storage building in Musselburgh in the early hours of 11 March. The location of the fire close to the town centre and concerns over smoke required a multi-agency response to deal with the incident quickly and keep local residents safe. A number of council services, as well as representatives from the Health and Social Care Partnership, responded to calls during the night to support fire and police colleagues. It was another demonstration of how effectively the council handles these situations, with the interests of our community being the foremost priority. My thanks to all involved.
Highlights from the last month have included World Social Work Day. This is a key day in the year that allows social workers worldwide to promote and celebrate the profession. Social work is one of a number of professions within the council which can sometimes be unseen by the public at large but plays a critical role throughout our communities and exemplifies the council’s values of Enabling, Leading and Caring. I’m very grateful for all of the work that our social work teams do and also those staff who support them.
March has been very busy with council committee meetings. These have included Cabinet, Audit and Governance, Planning, Education and Children’s Services and Policy and Performance, to give a few examples. A lot of hard work goes into the preparation of papers and reports for elected members to consider and I’d like to express my appreciation to all colleagues for their help with this supporting the democratic, decision-making processes of the council.
It has also been good to hear of positive feedback from colleagues regarding our recent employee sessions on our ‘place project’, which is reviewing properties that deliver, or have the potential to deliver, general face to face services. New approaches to the operation of buildings – such as the potential creation of community hubs – can help us ensure we operate efficiently while maintaining good quality, well used buildings locally in a flexible way to meet the needs of residents and groups.
The project is being driven by evidence-based data analysis as well as both employee and community feedback. Further updates on the project will be provided in the coming weeks and I’d encourage all colleagues with an interest to get involved.
I would also like to take the opportunity to highlight that the recruitment process is now underway to fill the vacant posts of Head of Communities and Head of Development on a permanent basis. Both roles are integral in allowing the council to address many of the challenges, as well as grasping opportunities, which lie ahead.
We also look forward to welcoming Laurence Rockey to East Lothian Council on 22 April when he will join us as Chief Executive. I am sure there will be opportunities for colleagues to meet with and hear from Laurence as he settles into the role and looks to the future.
With the Easter school holidays approaching, I hope everyone who is planning to take some time off has an enjoyable and restful break. My thanks also to colleagues who will be working, or on call, during the Easter holiday weekend. Your efforts play a critical role in ensuring we continue providing essential services to the communities we serve.
Lesley Brown
Interim Chief Executive
News
Renewed play area opened in Lauderdale Park
Pupils from Dunbar Primary School were the special guests for the official opening of a renewed play area in the town’s Lauderdale Park.
A group of twenty youngsters were in attendance for the launch on 31 March and enjoyed trying out the upgraded equipment.
The play area, which takes its inspiration from local landmarks, has been welcoming children and young people for the last three weeks and has proved hugely popular.
Councillor Colin McGinn, the council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing and Sport, Countryside and Leisure, joined the pupils to mark the opening.
He said: “I’m delighted the play area has been such an immediate success, and I’ve already received some great feedback. My grandson has been along and given his verdict. He loved it!
“I’m sure it will be a popular attraction for people across East Lothian for years to come.”
New play equipment has been installed under a design created following community consultation, including with local children and young people.
Inclusive play equipment
The exciting and inclusive space, which incorporates references to landmarks such as the John Muir Way, the Bass Rock and Dunbar Castle, has equipment suitable for a range of ages and abilities from toddlers to teenagers.
Older children and teens in particular will be able to enjoy a ‘Flying Fox’ cableway, climbing frame and rope bridge inspired by the nearby ‘The Bridge to Nowhere’. Along with the more challenging equipment aimed at this age group, they will benefit from new social seating to hang out.
There is also a range of inclusive play equipment, including a wheelchair-accessible roundabout, an inclusive seesaw, and a ‘nest’ swing, all located on rubber wetpour surfacing.
The cost of the renewal was just over £300,000 and was funded by a Scottish Government Play Parks Renewal Funding allocation to East Lothian Council.
The previous play area had reached the end of its lifespan and needed replacement.
The design for the renewal was prepared following input from local people through a public consultation. A total of 321 people responded to offer their feedback on what they wanted to see in the play area, including families of children with special needs, along with Dunbar Community Council.
Further renewals through Scottish Government Play Parks Renewal external funding are now in progress for play areas in Prestonpans, Tranent and North Berwick.
Councillor McGinn joins representatives from Kompan, Amenities Services and Sports Development who were involved in delivering the fantastic new park
Place project update
Thank you to all colleagues who attended one of our recent employee sessions explaining the background to the council’s new place project.
As part of our Asset Review, the council is carrying out the place project to review properties that deliver, or have the potential to deliver, general face-to-face services. This includes buildings that offer customer facilities where the public can speak face-to-face with an advisor, libraries with access to computers, bookable rooms and buildings which have the potential to be a community hub.
Opportunities
While there are no plans to stop or reduce these services, new approaches to the operation of buildings could help ensure the council has good quality, well used assets within local communities offering modern and flexible facilities to meet the needs of local residents. This could be achieved by using buildings differently, for example in some communities co-locating services which might currently be delivered from different buildings under one roof. There are already examples of where such community hub models operate successfully – such as the Bleachingfield in Dunbar and the George Johnstone Centre in Tranent. There could also be opportunities for communities to take over the running of some buildings such as by leasing them, community asset transfer or looking at opportunities with community planning partners and others.
Through the Asset Review, much work has already been carried out resulting in savings for the council, such as the closure of Randall House and relocation of colleagues to John Muir House and elsewhere.
But there is still more work to do and we need to proceed with the next phase of the Asset Review. In what continues to be an extremely challenging financial climate, the council is required to deliver previously agreed budget savings in the next five years. Ensuring that we operate good quality and well utilised buildings with modern facilities in a sustainable and efficient way, can help address these challenges.
Engagement
The project is being driven by evidence-based data analysis and informed by both employee and community feedback. It is hoped that this will allow us to develop a sustainable approach to service delivery, reduced premises costs and a clear long term property strategy.
The recent online briefing sessions provided employees with an overview of the background, set out how colleagues can contribute to the process and provided an opportunity to ask questions. We are in the process of inviting community organisations including key building stakeholders to a series of workshops. This will provide an opportunity to discuss the principle of this approach and gather views on ways in which buildings are used. There will then be drop-in sessions open to the public, as well as an online questionnaire, when local residents will be able to provide feedback. Further details of this will be published as soon as possible.
An intranet page is also being set up where further information will be added for employees in the weeks and months ahead.
If you have any questions please email placemakingproject@eastlothian.gov.uk
Tom Reid, Head of Infrastructure
Caroline Rodgers, Head of Communities & Partnerships
Celebrating the legacy of Tyne and Esk Community Funding
Tyne and Esk Community Led Local Development (CLLD) programme has made a significant impact on rural communities in East Lothian and Midlothian. Since November 2022, over half a million pounds has been awarded to 52 projects, supporting local groups, individuals, and businesses in advancing inclusion, equality, and diversity.
On 14 March, a celebratory event was held at Edinburgh College, Milton Road, where recipients of the CLLD funding and members of the Local Action Group gathered. Special guest Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, praised the programme's success and its lasting legacy.
Anne Hastie, Co-chair of the Local Action Group, highlighted the positive feedback and connections made through the programme. Ms Gougeon emphasized the transformative power of community-led investment, noting that more than £29 million has been invested in rural communities across Scotland since 2021, with over 1,000 projects benefiting.
Speakers at the event included:
- Rab Campbell and Maddie Kortenaar from Social Value Engine Ltd, who discussed the social return on investment of CLLD funds, which was calculated at £4.86 for every £1 in 2022/23, rising to £7.32 in 2023/24.
- Robert Gillies from Harlawhill Day Centre, who shared how funding was used to refurbish the centre's facilities and minibus.
- Cheryl Brown MBE CF and Gemma Laidlaw from Midlothian Sure Start, who detailed their use of funding for IT equipment, outdoor play enhancements, and the development of a high-quality baby room.
- Trudi Cueto from Carfrae Farm, who explained how funding supported the purchase of a milk vending machine, reusable bottles, and improvements to farm signage and hot food takeaway equipment.
The event showcased the many positive outcomes of the Tyne and Esk CLLD programme, demonstrating the power of community-led development in rural areas.
'Zero tolerance’ policy on fly-tipping announced
East Lothian Council has announced a ‘zero tolerance’ policy on fly-tipping following the introduction of new measures to help catch offenders.
A recent rise in fly-tipping has been recorded, with 226 incidents reported between April and June last year compared to 162 in the previous three months.
But the increase has coincided with the development of additional tools to track down culprits who are breaking the law.
Now a stark warning has been issued to both unscrupulous traders and residents that the most severe punishments will be pursued.
Council officers are authorised to serve Fixed Penalty Notices on those who engage in fly-tipping. The current financial penalty is £500 and there is no right of appeal. Failure to pay the penalty within 14 days will result in a report being submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
If the case goes to court and someone is convicted of fly-tipping, they can face a fine of up to £40,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months.
A new reporting service is operating in East Lothian to better record and map where incidents of fly-tipping occur.
An additional £85,000 had to be allocated in this year’s council budget to meet the costs associated with disposing of waste being dumped by fly-tippers in the county.
Rogue traders
A number of high-profile fly-tipping incidents have taken place in recent months, including the dumping of rubbish outside the main gate of Amisfield Walled Garden, near Haddington, in December. Charity volunteers at the 18th century garden were dismayed after wooden doors, shower screens, paint cans and plastic containers were left blighting the entranceway.
The majority of the materials dumped by fly-tippers are bulky waste including large household items.
Fly-tippers can be reported on the East Lothian Council website.
Disclosure Scotland updates from 1 April
The following changes came into effect from Tuesday 1 April:
- The PVG scheme became mandatory in law for all those carrying out a regulated role with Children or Protected Adults. Currently it is a mandatory requirement by the Care Inspectorate. No person will be permitted to carry out regulated work with East Lothian Council if they do not have a disclosure check for the regulated role they are carrying out.
- Disclosure levels changed from previous four levels of disclosure: basic, standard, enhanced and PVG disclosures (for members of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups scheme) to:
- Level 1 (Any role) - replaces basic disclosure.
- Level 2 (Specific “exempted” roles”) - replaces standard and enhanced disclosure.
- Level 2 PVG Scheme (Regulated roles) – replaces PVG disclosure
All applicants are now required to view their PVG Disclosure online and then authorise the Disclosure Information to be provided to the council. The applicant must then select the option to release their information within 14 days (tbc). After 14 days the Disclosure Information is withdrawn, and the applicant will need to reapply. Applicants who apply via the non-digital route will be posted their information and they will need to contact Disclosure Scotland to either appeal or release their Disclosure Information to the Council. It is important that managers and applicants are aware of this change to prevent any delay in the process.
- After viewing their Disclosure Information, applicants can apply to the new Independent Reviewer for convictions and/or other information to be removed before the Disclosure Information is provided to the Council. If the applicant decides to appeal, the Disclosure Information will NOT be released. The time frame for the appeals process is not known.
- The minimum age for applying for a PVG Scheme membership is now set at 16 years old. Under 16s will not be eligible to apply for a PVG, however they will need to apply for a PVG Scheme Membership when they turn 16.
Regulated Work has been replaced by Regulated Roles. This is likely to include additional roles in places of work where Protected Adults and Children are. Many of these roles were previously considered incidental and did not require a check.
A Protected Adult has changed from being over age 16 to being over 18 years. Under 18s will be considered as Children. An employee who has a PVG scheme membership for one type of regulated role (such as adults) cannot carry out the other type of regulated role (such as under 18s) without first obtaining a scheme update for that role. An employee who works with Children (Under 18s) and Protected Adults (Over 18s) will need a PVG scheme membership for working with both groups.
Information on the intranet is being updated from 1 April to reflect the new process. HR will be reaching out to teams where some of these changes may affect a team member’s PVG requirements.
This is part of a roll-out of the provisions of the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020 with some changes already in place and more to follow later this year.
Empowering Young Carers: new ID cards celebrate their vital role
Listening to the voices and opinions of young people, East Lothian Council’s Young Carers Team have developed a new Young Carers Identity Card. The move is in response to feedback from young carers themselves who said the card would help increase their confidence and provide them with the recognition they deserve.
Young carers are under 18 years old and provide unpaid help and support to a relative, friend or neighbour who due to illness or disability cannot manage to live independently without their help.
The amount of support they provide can vary and can include a range of activities. For example, some young carers may support a sibling or parent at home. Activities may include physical care, like helping them get dressed, practical care, like helping around the home, or emotional support by spending quality time with them. Older siblings may take some responsibility for their younger brothers or sisters, like getting them ready for school. Others may help older relatives or neighbours on a regular or infrequent basis.
Riley Pytlarz with his Carer ID Card
Caring for others at a young age comes with additional responsibilities and can have an impact on an individual’s life and daily activities. The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 ensures that young carers are able to have their voice heard, to be listened to, especially about decisions that affect them, and supported to achieve their personal goals. One of the means of achieving this is through the creation of Young Carers Statement. It helps identify and recognise a young carers, strengths, skills, qualities and personal goals.
From talking to young carers in East Lothian, many highlighted that having a form of identification indicating their role as a young carer would be beneficial to make them more seen, to recognise their contribution and give them confidence. The East Lothian Councils Young Carers Team agreed, and the creation of the ID Card was put into action.
Cabinet spokesperson for Education, Children’s and Family Services, Councillor Fiona Dugdale comments, “Young carers provide invaluable support to siblings, parents, relatives and neighbours. For many caring isn’t a choice, it’s a necessity. While the ID Card may be small, its significance is much bigger. It’s an acknowledgment, a recognition, and a celebration of all that they do. It provides status, and an opportunity for young carers to be seen, identified, and involved in discussions. Our Young Carers should be exceptionally proud of the support they provide, and I hope having the ID Card goes some way to assisting this.”
If you know someone under the age of 18 who provides unpaid caring support to family members, friends or neighbours, contact our Young Carers team to see what support could be available.
Further information on support for carers is also available online.
Traditional Skills Training Fund opens
Dunbar Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) has launched a Traditional Skills Bursary scheme, with applications invited from 1 April 2025.
Traditional buildings, generally those built before 1919, make up about 20 per cent of Scotland’s dwellings and the appropriate skills needed to work on these buildings are in decline, so traditional buildings are often repaired in an inappropriate manner which can accelerate the deterioration of the historic fabric, often causing irreversible damage.
Dunbar CARS has developed the Traditional Skills Bursary Scheme to provide financial support to individuals looking to learn a traditional skill or develop an existing one. The fund is designed to be flexible and can support a wide range of courses, workshops and seminars linked to building conservation and traditional skills. These include stone masonry, traditional joinery and architectural metal working.
Examples of course providers offering activities and events related to traditional building and conservation skills include the Scottish Lime Centre Trust, the Engine Shed (Historic Environment Scotland), the Institute for Historic Building Conservation and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. There are many other training providers and the Dunbar CARS officers would be happy to discuss the eligibility of any identified activity.
Applicants can apply for up to £2,000 to support the cost of attending the identified course(s) which can be used to cover course fees, travel costs, and accommodation if required. Funding is limited so it is advisable to make an application as soon as possible.
As part of the promotion of the bursary scheme, Dunbar CARS has organised a number of hands-on activities in the town centre over the next few weeks:
- Close Repair and Refurbishment: Purves Close, Dunbar High Street. Darren Brown and Ben Gilmour (the Ridge). Learn how to rake out, point and plaster a rubble wall using lime render and paint. Tuesday 8 April, 10am-12 or 2-4pm; Wednesday 9 April, 10am-12 or 2-4pm; Thursday 10 April, 10am-midday or 2-4pm
- Hot Lime Workshop: Black Bull Close, Dunbar High Street. Jamie Goodwin (the Ridge). Learn how to point a wall using hot lime. Saturday 26 April, 10am-midday or 2-4pm
Trainers will be available for Q&A sessions between 1-2pm or to book one of the two hour taster sessions, email the team. Booking for the sessions is essential as places will be limited. All necessary protective equipment and tools will be provided and prior knowledge of the skill is not necessary.
Dunbar CARS will also be participating in the community-led Spring Clean Weekend on 26 and 27 April. Local social enterprise, Forge and Equip, will carry out demonstration sessions outside the Museum and Town House on Saturday 26 April on how to repair and look after rusty gates or railings, with drop in sessions running between 11am and 4pm.
To receive a Dunbar CARS Traditional Skills Bursary application pack and guidance notes, please email the team
Young people tell John Muir’s story in a new way
A talented group of S2 students from Dunbar Grammar School have been working with East Lothian Council Museums Service to learn new skills and gain experience working in museums and galleries.
This involved developing a new way of learning about John Muir’s story and the nature emergency - with some added drama!
On Tuesday 18 March John Muir’s Birthplace was handed over to the Dunbar Grammar students for the morning. The students welcomed 42 visitors to the museum to try out their escape room-style trail, which they created as part of their Workforce for the Future Project funded by Museums Galleries Scotland.
The escape room trail will be available for visitors to try over the spring and summer. Visitors collect a clue card with puzzles, codes and hints to solve as they explore the museum, meeting some of the animals that John Muir encountered on his travels. The trail is a timed race against extinction.
John Johnstone, Dunbar Grammar School Head Teacher, said: “The students have developed teamwork and communication skills, increased their confidence and learnt more about careers in the heritage sector. I was so impressed by how they welcomed visitors, giving instructions and keeping all the activities running.”
Museums Galleries Scotland’s Workforce and Training Officer Frankie Bradley said: “The Workforce for the Future Project is all about demystifying the heritage sector and helping connect museums with young people. The cohort from Dunbar Grammar have taken a fun and engaging approach by developing an escape room style trail. Who would have thought trying to solve clues, crack codes and unravel mysteries to save Dave the Rat from extinction could be such fun?”
John Muir’s Birthplace is open Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm at 126 High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ. www.jmbt.org.uk
Asset valuations
DM Hall, on behalf of our Estates team, is in the process of valuing all council assets.
Every local authority is required to value its assets for accounting purposes. For land and buildings, a full survey and valuation is required every five years, or sooner in some cases. DM Hall has been appointed and is in the process of carrying out these surveys and will be visiting all council buildings. Some surveys will be pre-arranged, some will be ad-hoc. The surveyor from DM Hall will have identification and a letter of introduction from Estates.
This is normal council business and not related to the placemaking project or asset review.
If you would like more information please email estates@eastlothian.gov.uk
Successful workshop to support creating resilient communities
Around 100 dedicated East Lothian volunteers came together to discuss how to make their community more resilient at a special workshop organised by our Emergency Planning and Resilience team. The attendees included Community Councils, Tenants and Residents Associations, Schools, Parent Councils, Church groups and Connected Communities.
Shared experiences
The Resilient Communities Workshop was organised to explore what this idea means in practice, how local areas can become more resilient and what we can learn from elsewhere. Elected members and council management team members attended to host round-table discussions giving plenty of opportunity for people to share their own experiences.
With weather-related challenges fresh in everyone’s mind from Storm Eowyn, attendees heard presentations from the Met Office on climate change, recent storms and training opportunities. Our Sustainability and Climate Change Officer Cheyne Hamm and Tess Humble from the East Lothian Climate Hub discussed adaptation for communities and the work of the East Lothian Climate Hub while Scottish Government officer Kerry Jardine presented on the body’s Resilient Communities work and Katie Bartholomew from its Domestic Climate Change division highlighted how scientific behaviour change models can be used to shape a positive response around community resilience and action.
Inspiring stories
Jemma Landells, a business owner from Scottish Borders, inspired the audience with her experiences establishing the Eyemouth Response Team which provides vital support to its community during emergencies. As a former chair of Eyemouth Town Council and a proud mum and grandma, Jemma’s story of feeling compelled to help make her town a better and safer place resonated with the attendees, who included many community councils and local groups.
SPEN, Red Cross, SGN, Police Scotland, Salvation Army, Scottish Flood Forum, Scottish Fire & Rescue Service, Tyne and Esk Community Development and Raynet attended and were available for informal discussions around resources and support available from their organisations for ongoing resilience work.
Scott Kennedy Team Manager – Emergency Planning and Resilience was delighted with how the day went. He said: “It was very encouraging to see so many people from our communities attend our first Resilient Community Workshop since 2019 which provided a great opportunity to share best practice, network and to achieve collaborative learning from the variety of presentations on the day. It is now important that the Emergency Planning and Resilience team build on the positive outcomes and enthusiasm of the day and work with the attendees to continue to establish resilient community groups throughout East Lothian."
Scott Kennedy Team Manager – Emergency Planning and Resilience
Planning Committee approves holiday lodges at Whitekirk Hill
East Lothian Planning Committee met on Tuesday 1 April and discussed three applications, including the erection of 22 holiday lodges at Whitekirk Hill, North Berwick.
Whitekirk Hill is a tourism and leisure facility, half a mile from the village of Whitekirk, and was formerly the Whitekirk Golf and Country Club. Planning permission in principle was granted in July 2020 for a maximum of 41 holiday lodges and associated development on the site, which also features a mixed-use, multi-function leisure club facility with restaurant, bar and café facilities, gym and swimming pool and indoor/outdoor children's play areas.
Permission was granted in November 2020 for the construction of nine of those lodges. The current application is for the next phase of development, of 22 lodges, which is part retrospective as a number of the holiday lodges and their associated access roads and parking areas have already been installed on the site. Phase two features 12 three-bedroom lodges and 10 micro lodges with one bedroom each.
No objections or representations had been received. The application was approved with nine votes and one abstention.
Committee members also agreed, nine votes to one, to approve the erection of an agricultural building and vehicular access at Boggs Holdings, Pencaitland. Planners had recommended approval of the application. It was discussed at committee after being called off the Scheme of Delegation by Councillor Akhtar due to local concerns. Seven letters of objection had been received raising various issues including road safety, tree removal and the size of the proposed shed. Following a debate, an additional condition was added to the planning consent, that agricultural vehicles should only use the new access and not the lane currently used by residential properties.
A development of two new houses on the site of an existing house, ‘Davanmore’, Gosford Road, Longniddry, was unanimously approved. It had been called off the Scheme of Delegation List by Councillor Bruce due to comments submitted by Longniddry Community Council on the appropriateness of what was being proposed, which they thought might constitute overdevelopment. Five objections had been received, raising concerns including a potential loss of privacy to neighbouring properties and the capacity of the site to accommodate two new properties.
Each of the two new houses will be two-storey and feature front and back gardens, two off-street parking spaces, driveways, stone paving external patios and electric vehicle charging points. Following a site visit and a debate at committee, the plans were approved.
The relevant application numbers are: Whitekirk, 23/00786/AMM and 18/01123/PPM; Boggs Holdings, 24/00788/P and Longniddry, 24/01416/P.
What's On
What's on in our museums
Spring Family Fun
Staff are excited to open for the new season at Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery and Prestongrange Museum from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September. Throughout April there will be Spring Trails and or Crafts available at the museums in Prestonpans, Haddington and Dunbar.
New exhibitions
People and Places an exhibition by Martha Ellis
Inspired by people and nature around her, Musselburgh based artist Martha Ellis exhibits a selection of work and research drawings made during the creation of her Queen Margaret University 150th Anniversary sculpture.
2 April to 11 May
Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery, High Street, Dunbar EH42 1ER.
What's the Story?
An exhibition of art and photography exploring life and work from 1745 to 2020. Curated by the Friends of the John Gray Centre alongside Museum staff to present some rarely seen items from the East Lothian Council Museum Collection.
13 Feb to 26 April
John Gray Centre (Museum) 15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX.
East Lothian Climate Hub: Climate Creativity Collaboration
Based on over 1000 visions of a thriving, sustainable East Lothian in the year 2040, and facilitated by local storyteller Tim Porteus, secondary school students have activated their creativity to develop inspiring piece of climate action art, including stories, poems, cartoons, illustrations, and more.
23 April to 1 June
John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.
Making and Music
The centenary and creative life of Fisherrow-born artist and musician James Burnet Munro (1925-1990) and his family is being celebrated this year with art exhibitions and events in Musselburgh, Haddington, Edinburgh and across Scotland.
3 April to mid June
Musselburgh Museum, 65 High St, Musselburgh EH21 7BZ.
East Lothian Council Museums:
15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX
Thursday and Friday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm.
Saturday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm
126 High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ
Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm
Sunday 1pm to 5pm
High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1ER
Wednesday to Sunday 1pm to 5pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)
Morrison’s Haven, Prestonpans, EH32 9RX
Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4.30pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)
School Road, North Berwick, EH39 4JU
Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 4pm
(from Wednesday 9 April to Saturday 25 October)
65 High St, Musselburgh EH21 7BZ
Thursday to Saturday 10.30am to 4pm
(from Thursday 3 April to Saturday 27 September)
What's on at The Brunton
April is a time of renewal and rejuvenations, and The Brunton’s programme this month promises to invigorate and inspire audiences with a delightful array of performances and events.
In Haddington this April, The Brunton welcomes one of the world’s leading Bach performers and scholars, John Butt. This classical harpsichord concert will be playing at the Corn Exchange on Thursday 3 April at 7:30pm.
Film Fridays at the Corn Exchange in Haddington continues with a fantastic line-up of Family Friendly Films, Matinees, and Big Screen Favourites. Enjoy highly anticipated releases such as Anora and Six! The Musical Live.
A sensational comedy collective will be making audiences laugh the night away at the Corn Exchange on 12 April. Featuring stand-up stalwarts, Jay Lafferty, Mark Nelson, Cubby, and Graham Mackie.
Prepare to hear Aled Jones, the boy treble who captivated the world with his angelic voice, as you’ve never heard him before. Now, after 40 years in the business, he’s looking back on a remarkable career with a one-man show.
Lastly at the Corn Exchange this April, The Maxwell Quartet will be exploring music from across the centuries, including works by Haydn and Dvorak, alongside their own signature arrangements of Scottish folk music.
In Musselburgh, kicking off the month with a bang, all three critically acclaimed one-woman shows, The Moira Trilogy, written and performed by Alan Bissett, will be coming to Loretto Theatre.
Midweek Movies in April begins with highly anticipated Mickey 17, a dark sci-fi comedy from the mind of Parasite on Wednesday 09 April at 7:00PM. Followed by five-time Oscar winner, including Best Picture, Anora on Wednesday 23 April at 7pm.
In April, The Brunton’s lunchtime recitals invites the Lark Piano Trio to fill Northesk Parish Church with Tchaikovsky’s rich music. A light lunch of soup and a sandwich is served in the Church Hall adjacent to the church at midday.
Book and bake sale 2 April
Children's Services is holding a baking and pre-loved book sale in John Muir House to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities. The organisation provides 'home away from home' accommodation for families with a child in hospital including at the Royal Hospital for Children & Young People in Edinburgh.
- Wednesday 2 April
- 1pm-4pm
- Saltire Room 2, John Muir House
Come along and find something new to read - and a sweet treat to enjoy while you're reading it too!
Cash only. Donations welcome.
Our People
Meet Glen!
Glen Bunting shared his experiences working as a Seasonal Amenity Operative to encourage people to apply for positions in a similar role.
The 25-year-old explained how anyone wanting to learn new skills who loves working outdoors should consider applying for the six-month contract posts.
With roles available at the council's North Berwick, Musselburgh, Meadowmill and Dunbar depots, successful applicants would provide frontline delivery in street sweeping, general grounds maintenance, and related services across the county.
Glen said: “When I started as a Seasonal Amenity Operative, I covered a range of of activities. You could be out street cleaning then the next day be on gardening duties or maintaining rights of way.
"I appreciate the variety and knowing that my work is directly benefitting the area I live in.”
After staying on in the post, Glen now specialises in gardening work while pursuing a college course in horticulture at SRUC Oatridge on day release.
He said: “I’d been working for the Council since 2018 after starting in business administration supporting facilities management. I realised admin wasn’t really for me, so I moved on to janitorial and cleaning work in other Council posts.
“Then I decided to take a six-month contract as a Seasonal Amenity Operative in April 2023. I wanted to work outside and do more physical work. After a month, I was really enjoying the job and knew this was something I could see myself doing long-term.”
Glen covers a wide geographical area from the Council’s Dunbar depot, carrying out duties in the town along with work in Oldhamstocks, Innerwick, Stenton, Spott, East Linton, and West Barns.
He said: “The place you work can change every day. If you like being out in the fresh air then it’s a fantastic option, especially during the summer months.
“It has given me a great deal of job satisfaction and I appreciate the compliments we receive from members from the public.”
Glen said the six-month posts can lead to longer contracts and full-time roles with the council. He added: “The six-month contract is an excellent way to see if you like it and people often stay on. Everyone in the depot is happy to pass on their knowledge and experience so you can learn a variety of transferable skills. That also gives you a great chance of landing a role with another employer. It could be a springboard to specialise in an area which you found interesting.”
It's your moment to Shine for Cancer Research
Soralla Casas, Finance Officer and two colleagues, Kashia Cichowska and Montse Turueno are looking for staff to join them for the Shine Night Walk for Cancer Research in Edinburgh on 27 September.
Shine Night Walk Edinburgh is an illuminating night-time walk passing some of the city's most famous sights.
People of all abilities can take part with the 10k walk taking between 1.5 to 3 hours to complete.
Soralla said: "like many people, cancer has touched our lives and the lives of our friends and families. We want to help fundraising for Cancer Research, and this walk seemed like an ideal way to support the charity." Sora went on to assert "it's not a run, and it's only 10k. I used to donate my hair for wigs, but this is something I can do with friends and colleagues"
"It would be great if other council colleagues could join us. When you sign up it costs £17.49 and you can select to fundraise for a type of cancer research that is closest to your heart"
For more information visit the Shine Edinburgh webpage.
If you'd like to join Sora, Kashia and Montse why not get in touch?
Email Sora here.
Apprentices Brennan and Alex share the spotlight
Two of our council apprentices were in the spotlight last month as they shared their experiences for Scottish Apprenticeship Week.
Brennan Dugay, a Regulatory Services Modern Apprentice with Regulatory Services and Apprentice Electrician Alex Kelly spoke of the benefits of this route into employment which combines ‘earning and learning’.
Alex told us: “I decided to embark on an apprenticeship as I believe it is a great way to start a lifelong career. As an apprentice I earn while I learn. All the while I am gaining on-site experience and working towards a qualification at college. Apprentices such as myself receive a high quality of training that is sought after, meaning there is always a wide variety of work that can be undertaken and a range of career development opportunities beyond my studied trade.”
Award nominated
Alex has been nominated for the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) Apprentice of the Year award. In his second year of his apprenticeship, he’s gaining valuable knowledge on site and at college: “I am currently learning multiple aspects of being an electrician such as testing, electrical fault finding, installing new circuits, upgrading existing circuits and so on. At college, I have had the opportunity to learn through science and technology classes and have the task of designing an entire electrical installation, including calculating illumination levels all the way to selecting the correct type of circuit breakers.
“All the skills and information I have learned so far allow me to progress through my apprenticeship and will give me the ability to work as a qualified electrician in the future.”
Gain qualifications while earning
Like Alex, the ability to earn a salary at the same time as gaining qualifications appealed to Brennan, who joined the organisation in January. Although still early in his modern apprenticeship journey, Brennan’s pleased with the route he’s chosen, saying: “I could never see myself going to uni but having the chance to still be able to get more qualifications and earn, straight from school, it’s much better. I’d recommend it.”
Brennan studied a foundation apprenticeship in scientific technologies while a student at Dunbar Grammar and this led him to think about a different way into the workplace. “I probably wouldn't have actually thought about a modern apprenticeship if I didn't take the foundation apprenticeship,” explains Brennan. “I didn't want to continue in full-time education so the idea of it was so much more appealing. You can work and get paid while getting qualifications.”
Brennan has already been getting to grips with the many areas that regulatory standards is involved in and is enjoying the breadth of activity: “Trading Standards covers a very broad spectrum of things like pricing and feed visits on animals. It's not the same every day: one day you're in a shop and the next you're on a farm.”
Partnership
New 12-week East Lothian walking challenge app launched
A new initiative aimed at promoting health and sustainability has been launched across East Lothian.
The East Lothian Social Prescribing Walking Challenge invites adults aged 18-64 to improve their physical and mental well-being through a 12-week step-based walking programme.
Utilising funding from Transport Scotland and SESTran, the initiative is a collaboration between East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership’ Exercise Referral Team and East Lothian Council’s Active Travel team, delivered in partnership with health and wellbeing company, Go Jauntly.
Aligned with NHS Scotland exercise guidelines, the challenge is designed to accommodate all activity levels. Whether you’re inactive or highly active, participants can gradually increase their daily steps with goals ranging from 3,000 to 14,000 steps per day. Along the way, they’ll earn badges, explore curated walking routes, and discover the joy of walking and active travel across East Lothian.
The programme highlights the importance of reducing short car journeys, creating healthier communities, and fostering long-term habits. Through the Go Jauntly app, participants can track their progress, access inspiring local walks, and even restart the challenge for continuous improvement.
The 12-week challenge is available for free on the Go Jauntly app for anyone who wants to be more active. You don’t have to be referred by a medical professional to take part, you can simply download the app and join the challenge.
Within the Go Jauntly app you’ll find a range of inspiring East Lothian walks to help you explore our county and its landscapes. These include a step-free walking along Haddington’s vibrant High Street and riverside, a scramble up the Law in North Berwick, or for the more adventurous, a 10km Salt of the Earth Heritage Trail taking in the coastal path from Longniddry to Prestonpans.
Beyond these curated options, a handy feature of the Go Jauntly app is that it will generate a walk that caters to your needs, wherever you are. You set the parameters and off you go!
Further information is available at: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/on-foot or
Sign up now: https://walks.gojauntly.com/challenges/east-lothian-steps-challenge-1032
Prestonpans Civic Square Project wins national award
Following its success in the Scottish Design Awards 2023, Prestonpans Civic Square project has now scooped a national award from the Civic Trust. 
Regeneration of the square was driven by Prestonpans Community Council in partnership with East Lothian Council and the Preston Seton Gosford Area Partnership and funded through the Scottish Government's Town Centre Fund.
The Civic Trust described the project: ‘The transformation of Prestonpans Civic Square is a masterclass in thoughtful urban design, showcasing the power of architecture to revitalise community spaces while respecting history, geography, and the needs of diverse users.
This regeneration project skilfully balances functionality and aesthetics, delivering a space that is as inclusive as it is inspiring. The architectural approach excels in harmonising with the square’s historical and geographical context. By removing the elevated viewing platform and re-centring the Category B Listed war memorial, the design restores the square’s civic importance while opening-up breathtaking vistas of the Firth of Forth.
The inclusion of features like the Juliet Balcony and picture window not only enhances connectivity to the coastal landscape but also transforms previously inaccessible views into shared community treasures. By retaining and restoring the 1950s boundary walls and reusing reclaimed stone, the design minimises environmental impact while celebrating the site’s historical fabric.’
Judges said: “The project delivers a space that is not only visually striking but also profoundly functional and inclusive - a true asset to the town and its people.”
Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, Councillor John McMillan, said: “My congratulations to everyone involved in this fantastic project – another hugely well-deserved award has been achieved here. It has been wonderful to see the local community making full use of this space.”
Chris Rankin, Partner at rankinfraser said: “We are delighted that the work of the whole team on the regeneration of Prestonpans Civic Square has been recognised with a prestigious Civic Trust Award. The award is given to projects that demonstrate an outstanding contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment and excellence in architecture or design whilst being sustainable, accessible and providing a positive civic contribution. East Lothian Council deserves great credit for investing in the public realm and commissioning an ambitious, design-led approach to the wider regeneration of the town, of which the new Civic Square plays an important part.”
The project involved removal of an elevated viewing platform on the west side of the square that was inaccessible to many and was no longer considered fit for purpose, as well as work to protect and conserve the war memorial designed in 1922 by William Birnie Rhind (RSA). Additional space was made available within the square (not on the existing memorial) for missing or new names.
Another aim of the project was to create a flexible public realm for community events and gatherings including Remembrance Day, encouraging users of the John Muir Way to stop in Prestonpans and to provide interpretation of the built, natural and cultural assets of the town.
The Civic Square was re-opened in December 2022, 100 years after the memorial’s unveiling.
The improvement works to Civic Square complements the heritage-led regenerative investment in the local area which includes the physical repairs to Preston Tower and Doocot, completed in 2023, construction of the new Engine Shed and planned creation of a volunteer base and regeneration of the former Bath House at Prestongrange, and the development of coordinated heritage interpretation linking various key sites to encourage the local community and visitors from further afield to engage with the area’s rich history and heritage.
For full details of the award, visit the Civic Trust Awards website.
HWL and Learning
learnPro team scorecard setup
The Team Scorecard function within learnPro enables line managers to view and report on their staff’s completion of Learning Plan items.
Video and written guidance on your Team Scorecard is available on the intranet. Search for 'LearnPro for line managers - Scorecard'.
Listening skills learning resources
Learn to Listen skills challenge
Think back to the last conversation you had with someone at work. What did the person say to you? Are you sure they said that? Being aware of your own state of mind is what enables you to listen. It can be easier said than done, and so the skill of listening requires regular practice. The skills challenge from Scott Bradbury called 'Learn to Listen' enables you to assess your listening skills using a variety of scenarios. You can find this resource on the intranet.
Listen Up! Scott Bradbury podcast
Listening is a skill we often take for granted. But a complex mix of barriers impedes our ability to listen well. The seven-minute podcast from Scott Bradbury called Listen Up! shares tips for being a good listener and describes three steps for overcoming the barriers to listening. You can find this resource on the intranet.
Reminder: Organisational Development has a range of digital learning resources on a variety of workplace issues available from Scott Bradbury. You can find these on the dedicated intranet page. Please note that not all the videos referenced in the skills challenges are available in the current Scott Bradbury subscription. But users can still undertake the main skills challenge within each.
HSF Health Plan gives financial support to 52 charities
Thanks to their partnership with East Lothian Council, in 2024 HSF Health Plan was able to provide grants to 52 Scottish charities, supporting vital causes across the country.
Here are just some of the many charities your membership is helping to support:
HSF offers employees a health cash plan, providing an affordable way to help cover the cost of everyday healthcare for you and your family.
As a council employee, the health cash plan offers over thirty benefits to you and your family (any partner and kids under 18 at same address covered free on your plan), including:
- dental (money back including for some cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening at a dentist, white fillings, crowns, veneers, check-ups, hygienist)
- optical (money back including for designer frame glasses, varifocals, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses, sports goggles and eye laser treatment)
- birth and Adoption Grants
- payments if off work through injury (up to 52 weeks after 30 days)
- practitioners (including chiropody, physiotherapy, osteopath, chiropractor, acupuncture, podiatry)
- hospital Admissions and Specialist Private Consultations & Tests (including MRI, ultrasound, blood tests, X-Ray, ECG, vaccination)
- GP Advice Line and Virtual Doctor
- counselling, Medical Information and Legal Helplines
- HSF Perkbox, a shopping discounts platform offering high street shopping discounts, cheap cinema tickets, discounted gym memberships and more.
You can read more about the plan and complete an application form here: HSF Health Plan
For any queries on the plan or assistance signing up, please contact our Account Executive via email: warren.vale@hsf.eu.com
First Aid training in May and June
The Outdoor Learning Service Team still have a limited number of places left on the following courses -
1 Day Emergency First Aid at Work
This course is suitable for lower risk work environments.
24 June 2025, 9am to 5pm, Outdoor Learning Service Musselburgh
3 Day First Aid at Work
Best practice for higher risk work environments e.g. working from height or potentially hazardous equipment, or for those who need to may need to support staff with specific medical conditions.
2 to 4 June 2025, 9am to 4:30pm each day, Outdoor Learning Service Musselburgh
2 day First Aid at Work revalidation
This course is suitable for those who ned to update the First Aid at Work qualification. MUST BE within 1 month of expiry.
20 and 21 May 2025, 9am to 5pm both days, Outdoor Learning Service Musselburgh
Outdoor First Aid
13 and 14 May 2025, 9am to 4:30pm both days, Outdoor Learning Service Musselburgh
For those who would like to plan ahead, our calendar for 2025-26 is now live. Please consider your First Aid Needs Assessment when considering the most appropriate training for staff. This includes the nature of your activities, the size and location of your department, and the needs of staff and service users. If you wish to book or need any help with selecting the most appropriate course, please email firstaidtraining@elcschool.org.uk for advice.