Festive message from Chief Executive Monica Patterson

As we approach Christmas and New Year, it is a good time to reflect on our work and achievements of the preceding 12 months.

I am extremely proud of what employees have achieved during this year, across all parts of the council. With East Lothian continuing to be one of Scotland’s fastest growing areas, employees and our partners have been involved in a wide variety of important work to deliver positive outcomes for all our local communities. This has included the development of new schools and delivery of additional council housing, as well as our sustained efforts to support businesses and grow the local economy.

Many achievements

A particularly exciting development is the construction of the innovation hub at Queen Margaret University – supported by council, government and City Region Deal funding – which is designed to support innovation-driven business growth and to create new high value employment. Meanwhile, works are taking place which will enable the former Cockenzie Power Station site to also be a catalyst for economic growth and new employment opportunities.

Protecting and enhancing the environment, including action to respond to the climate and nature emergencies, is of increasing importance. Officers have been involved with a number of significant projects, such as the Musselburgh Flood Protection Scheme and approval of our Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy and Delivery Plan. In addition, our work to promote active travel, increase household recycling opportunities and respond to challenges associated with adverse weather – such as storm damage and the partnership approach to repairs at North Berwick Harbour – is something which deserves to be commended.

New opportunities for children and young people to benefit from outdoor play have also been created in the last year, while we have seen the excellence of local beaches recognised once again by Keep Scotland Beautiful. I was also delighted to see the completion of the exciting heritage project at historic Preston Tower, doocot and garden.

In the face of many challenges, we continue to provide excellent customer services around the county, whilst embracing the opportunities of digital technology.

A number of local schools and nurseries have received positive reports from Education Scotland, while an evaluation of education in East Lothian concluded that there is a strong culture of improvement and accountability and a clear vision for curriculum development. The recent official opening of the Wallyford Learning Campus was a fantastic showcase of excellent new facilities.

It was also revealed in 2024 that a record number of East Lothian young people are in employment, education or training up to ten months after leaving school.

The calling of a summer General Election necessitated a huge amount of work but despite the challenges our employees responded superbly, both in terms of preparations for the election, polling day and the count at Meadowmill.

Keeping people safe is a major responsibility for the council and we were heartened by the outcome of a very positive inspection by the Care inspectorate. This found that children and young people in East Lothian who are at risk of harm are safer due to the work of our staff and our partners, working in a collaborative way within the county.

Across the council, we have continued to work in partnership with communities whilst supporting vulnerable and older people, including within health and social care. Despite many challenges including an increasingly difficult financial climate, we have provided essential services to our residents and make continual improvements for the benefit of our communities. All of this has highlighted the very best of East Lothian Council and demonstrated our values – Enabling, Leading and Caring – in action.

While there are many achievements and this is just a snapshot of our great work, I recognise it has not been an easy year with the resilience of some services being tested, for example the difficult decision that has been made to close the Brunton Hall. But at all times – in every department, service and team – colleagues have shown a real focus and determination to do the very best for residents and deliver quality services.

Looking ahead

The coming year will signal another period of change and challenge in the council but, ahead of my retirement in February, I know that employees will continue to adapt and innovate as the council looks forward to the future with positivity and confidence.

After such a busy year, I do hope that you are all able to enjoy a well-earned rest during the festive period. It is also important to recognise that a number of people will be working or on call, as we fulfil a vital role in maintaining essential services to keep people safe at this time of year. Sincere thanks for all your support.

Thank you for all your hard work in 2024. I would like to wish you a peaceful and enjoyable festive season and the very best for the new year.