Chief Executive, Laurence Rockey

I was privileged to meet some of our new starters at a Welcome to the council event held at Haddington’s Corn Exchange last month. It gave me a chance to talk with them about the challenges and opportunities ahead, and it was lovely to see so much enthusiasm in the room as they begin their journey with us. I’m sure they will help to deliver excellent services for the whole community for many years to come.

I was back at the Corn Exchange for another event a few days later and this time it was to congratulate and celebrate around 60 colleagues at our Long Service Awards. It was a very special moment to offer my sincere thanks to those who have completed 20, 30 and even 40 years of service. These are individuals who have exhibited dedication and commitment across decades, and I was delighted to play a part in recognising all their hard work. We benefit every day from their knowledge and experience, and the fact they have chosen to stay with the council throughout much of their working lives
is a testament to this organisation and what it stands for. I hope the new starters I met will enjoy similarly rewarding careers.

One of our biggest priorities at the moment is supporting elected members in the run up to our budget-setting meeting later this month. As you will know, most council funding comes from the Scottish Government who recently announced details of the financial package for local government in 2026/27. While the new funding we expect is welcome, we do still have a budget gap to bridge. With East Lothian being one of Scotland’s fastest growing areas and various different cost pressures on the council, elected members will need to make some important decisions about spending plans for next year and beyond. Although we are operating in a very difficult financial environment, I know we will collectively rise to the challenge by being innovative, continuing our great work supporting our communities, and providing the highest possible standard of services.

As our budget planning process moves forward, I was able to pay a visit to the Dunbar and East Linton Area Partnership towards the end of last month to learn more about their wonderful work. Area Partnerships are the local voice of community planning, and each has delegated funding from us to pursue their own projects. They also offer an important channel of communication, giving residents their say in how our services are best provided. Supported by our officers, the volunteers who serve on the county’s six Area Partnerships show us what can be achieved together.

Chief Executive, Laurence Rockey

 

Celebrating Long Service

63 colleagues with an incredible 1400 collective years of continuous service attended a special celebration to recognise their contributions to our council and East Lothian's communities.

The Long Service Awards saw colleagues from a wide range of services come together at the Corn Exchange, Haddington, to reminisce on their careers and the changes they have witnessed.

Chief Executive Laurence Rockey and East Lothian Provost John McMillan welcomed attendees and also presented everyone with a certificate to
mark 20, 30 or 40 years of service.

"Quiet warriors making a difference"

Speaking at the event, Laurence reflected on the value of public service, describing it as “an army of quiet warriors making a difference to people’s lives. Not seeking acclaim or the spotlight but doing your bit to make your county, your country and your world a little bit better.

“From early years services to burials, what we do affects everyone in East Lothian at some point in their lives,” he said. “It’s an amazing job and one that the public don’t always see. Today has really shown how much we all come to work with a sense of making a difference and I encourage you all to hold on to that as I do. Your collective service is an incredible achievement.”

Sharing memories across the decades 

Colleagues were invited to share their reflections across the decades from their personal and professional lives as well as world events.

Memories ranged from the introduction of computers into the organisation and, later, whiteboards in classrooms, to the impacts of covid on wedding services.

New services were introduced along with new buildings – George Johnston Centre and John Gray Centre opening in 2012 and 2014 respectively – changes to roles, workplaces and practices were mentioned alongside happy occasions such as first jobs, new homes, weddings, children being born and sporting successes!

"Utmost admiration" 

Closing the celebration, Councillor McMillan highlighted attendees’ roles in bringing our council values of Enabling, Leading and Caring to life, saying: “Many of you take the lead quietly, making that difference, caring for customers, our villages and towns, young people and old people. You deserve the utmost admiration and respect and we are all grateful for your professionalism, care and, above all, decades long commitment to making a difference in East Lothian. Thank you.”

20 years service

30 years service

40 years service

If you'd like a copy of one of the group photos, please email inform@eastlothian.gov.uk

Congratulations to all Long Service Award recipients.

Blindwells Primary School marks 100 pupil days with community celebration

Blindwells Primary School has marked its first major milestone since opening in August, celebrating 100 pupil days with a vibrant, community‑centred event that brought together learners, families, partners and local organisations.

Kindness, respect, and celebration

The day opened with a Bike Breakfast, delivered in partnership with the Outdoor Learning Team and Cycle Scotland. Families gathered for a healthy breakfast while pupils’ bikes received safety checks - an activity that set the tone for a day rooted in wellbeing, connection and active learning. From Early Learning and Childcare to Primary 7, pupils demonstrated the school’s core values of kindness, respect and celebration as they welcomed visitors and took part in activities.

A wide range of community partners joined the festivities. Local Firefighters and Community Police Officers offered pupils an insight into their roles and responsibilities, sparking conversations about safety and citizenship. I&H Brown provided an opportunity for children to explore the site vehicles involved in building the Blindwells development, linking learning to the evolving local landscape.

Activity and creativity

Physical activity and creativity were integrated throughout the day. Pupils took part in dance workshops with Sarah Huguet from HB Arts, tried martial arts, developed teamwork and motor skills with Active Schools and enjoyed their first rugby taster session with Preston Lodge RFC.

The Pennypit Family and Learning Centre added additional fun and surprises with alpacas, a disco, party games and prizes - a highlight for many pupils. And, as with any good celebration, a special cake brought everyone together.

Strong sense of community

Since opening, Blindwells Primary has welcomed children from more than 19 different schools and numerous nurseries. The school’s vision - to be a place where everyone belongs, every voice matters and every moment counts - was clearly reflected throughout the day. Pupils engaged confidently with visitors, asked thoughtful questions and embraced new experiences, from learning how to join the emergency services to discovering how to care for alpacas.

Feedback from the day captured the enthusiasm and pride felt across the school community. Pupils shared comments such as:

“This has been the best day at Blindwells!”

“I love Blindwells!”

“We are a great big team – how lucky are we!”

Visitors praised the children’s respect, confidence and curiosity, while staff reflected on the joy of seeing learners so animated and engaged:

“It was wonderful to see how animated and engaged our learners were throughout the day in the range of activities.”

“There was something for everyone.”

“Children felt included and supported to be involved.”

Headteacher, Gemma-Rose Lansdown said:  "The celebration not only marked 100 pupil days but also highlighted the strong sense of community already forming around Blindwells Primary. With such a positive start, we look forward to many more milestones as we continue to grow at the heart of this new and developing community." 

Support for colleagues living with domestic abuse and gender-based violence

A package of support has been agreed for colleagues experiencing domestic abuse and gender-based violence.

Our Domestic Abuse and Gender-Based Violence Policy was approved at a Cabinet meeting last month. It includes:

• paid time-off work to support people living with these issues to attend appointments to access housing, solicitor and legal support, counselling and to work with agencies offering professional help
• practical measures such as access to offices and other safe spaces and discrete ways to alert colleagues to domestic abuse
• awareness-raising and guidance for employees and managers to spot signs and respond appropriately
• a commitment to provide support to perpetrators who wish to address their behaviours through official programmes

It applies to all employees regardless of gender.

The updated policy has been developed to create a supportive working environment that allows all council employees to feel safe at work and when seeking help. It was created in consultation with staff and trade unions and in line with the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy and delivery plan to prevent and end violence against women and girls.

More information

• find a copy of the new policy on the intranet (listed on the Human Resources homepage)
• find out more about support available for people experiencing domestic abuse and gender-based violence

Saving for the future: Shared cost AVCs

We are partnered with My Money Matters to offer staff the opportunity to give up some of their gross salary (before tax) to invest in additional voluntary pension contributions. Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVC) are a tax-efficient way to save for your retirement. Shared Cost AVCs allow you to save National Insurance Contributions in addition to Income Tax on the contributions you pay. They provide an opportunity to supplement your Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and build up an additional retirement fund. You could take this as a tax-free lump sum, or it can be used to help you retire early.

You can take advantage of your this tax-efficient employee benefit today by applying for a Shared Cost AVC scheme here. Registration can be completed using your work or alternatively your personal email address. If you want more information about how the scheme works there is lots of helpful information and webinars available on the My Money Matters website. 

If you’ve already got a Shared Cost AVC plan, the run-up to the end of the tax year is a great time to review your contributions and make sure you’re making the most of your allowances. You can manage your contributions here.

My Money Matters is also hosting exclusive webinars in the run-up to the tax year’s end, to help you prepare for the end of the tax year, make the most of this year’s allowance, and do more for your future.

To book:

• view the available sessions by visiting EOTY webinars | My Money Matters and selecting Scotland to book onto your preferred webinar
• scan the QR code:

• click the links below

Wednesday 4 February 2026 2:30pm to 3:15pm

Friday 13 February 2026 10:30am to 11:15am

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Key change from April 2029:

Act early to make the most of National Insurance savings. Beginning 6 April 2029, the UK government will introduce a £2,000 annual cap on the amount of salary‑sacrificed pension contributions that are exempt from National Insurance.

What employees say:

“My independent financial adviser recommended making additional pension contributions through my employer as the most effective way to enhance my retirement savings while retaining the option of taking a tax‑free lump sum.”

“The Shared Cost AVC scheme is highly flexible, allowing me to increase or reduce contributions as needed, depending on my circumstances. By using salary sacrifice, my pension contributions cost me less than the amount I put in.”

“I’ve been very satisfied with the service, the simplicity of setting everything up, and the reassurance that I’m taking positive steps to plan for my future.”

“I contribute £83.33 a month but it only costs me £60 due to the tax and NI savings.”

“It was easy to set up my AVCs through My Money Matters website. I’m in the last few years of working before I retire so want to maximise my pension fund. The Shared Cost AVC scheme is a tax efficient way for me to do this. It is also very easy for me to update my plan online.”

Welcome to the council

Welcome to the council induction sessions are run for new employees to meet senior management, learn more about our organisation and our plans for the future.

On 22 January Lesley Brown (Depute Chief Executive - Children and Communities) and Councillor Shamin Akhtar (Depute Leader of the Council) met with colleagues representing a wide variety of services in Haddington's Corn Exchange and responded to excellent, thought-provoking questions. Earlier in the session Chief Executive, Laurence Rockey shared his thoughts on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing our organisation.

The next session is on Thursday 14 May 2026 at John Muir House, available to book on learnPro by using the apply for events button at the bottom of your learnPro homepage. A great opportunity for new employees to learn more about our council and ask questions.

Automatic deletion of Objective Connect files on 27 February: what you need to know

Objective Connect files and folders that have not been accessed in over six months will be automatically deleted on 27 February unless workspace owners download them ahead of time.

The move is to maintain information security and reduce the number of connections on the system, which is costly to maintain, ahead of our license renewal in April.

About Objective Connect

Objective Connect is a secure and efficient way to work with external organisations on projects, making it easy to share content outside our organisation with a secure, private area, known as a workspace.

It is intended for short-term secure file transfers between our organisation and third parties, it must not be used as a permanent file store.

To maintain security, reduce storage costs, and ensure our shared workspaces remain up to date, IT services will be performing a clean-up of all outdated content.

Any files stored in Objective Connect that have not been accessed in six months or more will be permanently removed.

Action required:

• if you have files that you still need, please ensure you download them before the scheduled clean-up takes place on 27 February
• review your Objective Connect workspaces regularly and remove any material that is no longer needed. This helps us maintain compliance and ensures only current, relevant information is retained. You can also schedule a workspace closure at any time to automate this process for you. A full guide to Objective Connect can be found on the Intranet (IT Service Desk homepage)
• If you have files that are being shared internally, SharePoint or OneDrive is a great alternative, information and guidance is available here: https://eastlothiangovuk.sharepoint.com/sites/M365

More information 

If you have any questions or need help, please contact our IT Service Desk.

Extra sign-up window for garden waste collection permits

An extra sign-up window for the 2025/26 garden waste collection service opened on Monday, 2 February.

Permit applications can be made using a myeastlothian account on our council’s website until the window closes at 4pm on Monday, 16 February.

This opportunity has been created to allow anyone who didn’t sign up during last year’s window - which operated from 12 May until 4 July - to join the current service.

Those signing up will benefit from fortnightly collections operating until 28 August 2026 at a cost of £35 for a permit.

They will have to sign up again for the 2026/27 service when the standard window opens in May for all residents, including paying for a new permit.

Permit stickers will be delivered to households signing up during the February window showing the address and permit number for the registered property. Collection crews will only empty brown bins with a valid sticker clearly displayed and they will check the sticker details match the address. There is a strict limit of one brown bin per household. 

Residents will also receive a calendar with the permit pack displaying the day and week of their bin collection.

Visit our website for more information.

Vivup: Employee benefits

Did you know you that as well as getting access to 24/7 confidential support, advice and counselling services, you can also access a range of lifestyle savings and all of our employee benefits schemes through the Vivup portal?

Registering is simple - you can sign up using either your council email address or your personal email address - register or sign in here or scan the QR code below:

Register before 31 March for the chance to win a £100 gift card, and sign in today to explore the Vivup portal and discover the full range of savings and employee benefits available to all staff, including your Employee Assistance Programme (Your Care Wellbeing), all in one place.

 

Employee Consultation: Time off for trade unions duties and activities policy

Employees are invited to review and feedback on the council’s draft Time off for trade unions duties and activities policy. The consultation opened on Wednesday 21 January, and is available online here. The consultation will close on Friday 13 February 2026 and all feedback is welcomed.

Time off for trade unions duties and activities policy consultation

The Brunton in Musselburgh and Haddington

It’s time to say goodbye to those January blues and get ready for another fantastic season of programming from The Brunton in Musselburgh and Haddington.

Midweek Movies continues at Loretto Theatre in Musselburgh with Song Sung Blue (12A). Starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, it tells the story of a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act as they experience soaring success and devastating heartbreak in their musical journey together. Highly anticipated Hamnet (12A) will also be playing at Loretto Theatre this February. Based on the 2020 novel by Maggie O’Farrell, Hamnet is a powerful story of love and loss that inspired the creation of Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, ‘Hamlet’.

Song Sung Blue (12A), Wednesday 4 February at 7pm, Loretto Theatre, Musselburgh

Hamnet (12A), Wednesday 18 February at 7pm, Loretto Theatre, Musselburgh

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Craig Hill - Wait ‘til you see my entrance!, Saturday 21 February at 7:30pm, Loretto Theatre, Musselburgh

Join Scotland’s hilariously cheeky comedian as he returns to Musselburgh on Saturday 21 February at Loretto Theatre. Craig Hill promises a riotously effervescent evening of kilt swingin’ and hilarious frivolity. “A laugh-out-loud performance from beginning to end…absolutely hilarious!” **** List

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Atelier Ensemble: Bite-Sized Concerts at Lunchtime, Tuesday 10 February, midday lunch, 1pm concert, Northesk Parish Church

Also, in Musselburgh this February, Northesk Parish Church hosts Bite-Sized Concerts at Lunchtime. Watch as this Scotland-based piano trio take you through an afternoon of jazz and tango influenced classical music.

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Catherine Wheels: Lightning Ridge, Saturday 7 February at 2pm, Corn Exchange, Haddington

In Haddington, The Brunton welcomes Catherine Wheels – East Lothian based children’s theatre company and their production of Lightning Ridge. Winner of two CATS awards, Lightning Ridge is about the possibility of dreams, a community coming together, the preciousness of hope and how, sometimes, we must believe in the impossible. For ages 8 plus.

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Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle, Friday 20 February at 7:30pm, Corn Exchange, Haddington

Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle are a rare musical treat not to be missed in Haddington this February. Key members of celebrated folk collective Transatlantic Sessions, and legends in their own right, McGoldrick, McCusker and Doyle bring their own blend of top-class folk songs, tunes and charming bonhomie.

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Bombskare, Saturday 21 February at 7:30pm, Corn Exchange, Haddington

Whether headlining a festival stage or playing a packed club venue, Bombskare never fail to deliver a powerhouse performance guaranteed to leave a mark! In partnership with Haddstock, Bombskare are a must-see live act at the Corn Exchange this season, with support from one of the UK’s most exciting new bands Fright Years.

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Keep up to date with The Brunton’s events at www.thebrunton.co.uk and follow @thebruntonmusselburgh on Facebook and Instagram

What's on in our museums

Drop in and doodle – February holiday fun!

Get creative this February holiday! Drop in any time and enjoy a relaxing doodle and collage session. Bring your own sketchbook or use our free drawing materials. Whether you love sketching, scribbling, collaging or simply trying something new, this is a fun, no‑pressure activity for all ages.

Come along, unwind, and let your imagination take over – no booking needed!

Saturday 14, Sunday 15 and Wednesday 18 to Sunday 22 February, 2pm to 4pm.

John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.

Admission free but donations very welcome.

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New exhibition

Earthscapes

Thursday 5 February to Saturday 28 March.

Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm. Free admission.

John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.

Aerial landscapes of East Lothian and Scotland by Emma Duncan show both man’s impact and ‘wilder’ areas and feature a range of landscapes including moorland, forestry, highlands and coastal areas. The viewer is invited to explore the diversity of our Scottish landscapes when seen from a different perspective and consider the fragile balances upon which our landscapes are built.

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Visions of Haddington 

Friday 16 January to Thursday 2 April. Free admission.

John Gray Centre - Museum, 15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX.

An exhibition combining mixed media images by local illustrator Thomas Small, with artworks from the East Lothian Council collection. Dating from the 1700s to the present day, they show Haddington people and places and are brought to life with fascinating captions by Haddington’s History Society. 

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Winter season museum opportunities

Explore historic records and online exhibitions at www.johngraycentre.org

Revisit past exhibitions from John Muir’s Birthplace www.jmbt.org.uk 

Explore the paths around Prestongrange Museums using the mobile phone tour as a guide through 400 years of local industry. www.eastlothian.gov.uk/prestongrange

Take a tour of Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery with Dunbar and District History Society on a Saturday afternoon. www.eastlothian.gov.uk/dunbar-town-house  

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East Lothian Council Museums

John Gray Centre (Museum)

15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX.
Thursday and Friday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm
Saturday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm

John Muir's Birthplace

126 High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.
Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm
Sunday 1pm to 5pm

Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery

High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1ER.
Wednesday to Sunday 1pm to 5pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)

Prestongrange Museum

Morrison’s Haven, Prestonpans, EH32 9RX.
Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4.30pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)

Coastal Communities Museum

School Road, North Berwick, EH39 4JU.
Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 4pm
(from Wednesday 9 April to Saturday 25 October)

Musselburgh Museum

65 High St, Musselburgh, EH21 7BZ.
Thursday to Saturday 10.30am to 4pm
(from Thursday 3 April to Saturday 27 September)

Getting everyone talking about East Lothian Reads

At the end of last year, we gave you a little teaser for the East Lothian Reads campaign. Now it’s getting underway, we want everyone in our communities to be talking about what they’re reading.

Whether it’s scrolling social media, checking the football scores, following a recipe or getting lost in a good book, there’s a reader in all of us.

Throughout 2026, the library service will be working with schools, groups and organisations to help as many people as possible find out more about what they love through reading. We’ll be looking to involve community members (readers and non-readers) in choosing the books we buy for our libraries and organising events to celebrate reading in all forms.

#EastLothianReads

Across the year you’ll also find three special collections of books available to borrow in each of our libraries. The first collection was chosen by our school librarians, public library staff and our social media followers and brings together classics, new titles and recommendations around the theme of Scotland. These will be available to borrow from early February. We’d love to know what you think of our choices so please join in the conversation on social media using the hashtag #EastLothianReads

The collection includes a mix of genres from classics like Lewis Grassic Gibbon’s Sunset Song; to Irvine Welsh’s follow-up to Trainspotting, Men in Love; a DCI Karen Pirie novel from Val McDermid and non-fiction titles to get the tastebuds tingling like The Scottish Food Bible by Claire MacDonald and The Scottish Soup Bible by Sue Lawrence. There are history books, fantasy novels, children’s books and much more to explore.

Visit the libraries page on our council website and follow East Lothian Libraries on social media to keep up to date with the latest activities, events and news about East Lothian Reads throughout the year. Full story on the campaign launch and Scottish collection is in our news section. 

Our next collection will appear in early summer and will involve community members and partner organisations in the selection panel.

Special ticket offer - Doris Day's amazing career is celebrated at Haddington's Corn Exchange

Brunton Theatre Trust have set up a special colleague ticket discount for Que Sera Sera on Sunday 15 March at 5pm at Corn Exchange, Haddington.

This will appeal to those with a Doris Day fan in their lives!

Get you Doris Day fix with this fabulous early evening show, beautifully staged and full of nostalgia, with a hugely talented cast and wonderful cinematography.

‘Fabulous performance. Brilliant cast and a wonderful evening of song & dance! Not to be missed!' Audience review

Three international vocalists, supported by a team of professional dancers perform Doris Day’s much-loved songs, complimented by stunning choreography and video clips.

Wonderful music, great costumes and a nostalgic trip back to the good old days.

Treat the Doris Day fan in your life with this special ticket offer

We are offering two tickets for £32.40 (plus £2 transaction fee) using promo code ELC10.

When booking online select two full price tickets and then enter the promo code ELC10.

This is a limited offer, so we do recommend booking early.

If you have any questions please do get in touch with our box office Monday to Friday, 11am to 3pm at boxoffice@eastlothian.gov.uk / 0131 653 5245.

Meet Ashley!

When Finance Officer Ashley joined us in March 2024, she brought with her a clear ambition to continue developing her career in finance. Thanks to Finance's developmental learning scheme, she has now achieved her AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) which is a respected and internationally-recognised qualification.

Starting as a Support Assistant for Midlothian Council’s Finance Team in 2018, Ashley was keen to progress further within the finance world. She completed the first two levels (of three) of the AAT with Midlothian before taking a break to start her family.

Technical knowledge and practical skills

From the outset, both Ashley and our organisation were keen that she continue with her studies which she resumed in July 2024. Her new qualification is already benefitting her and the work of her team:

“It’s provided me with technical knowledge and practical accounting skills that I can use in my role, to better support the Service Accounting team. I have more confidence with the work I do and a better understanding of how my role fits into the wider finance function.” she says.

David Henderson, Service Manager was quick to praise Ashley’s achievement saying: “She has shown considerable skill to balance her job, studying and her homelife and achieve her qualification.  We are delighted for her”.

Grow our own talent

Finance has been working closely with HR colleagues to revise its training accounting scheme, viewing it as an opportunity to ‘grow our own’ talent. While Ashley is the first member of the team to gain a qualification, a number of colleagues are currently undertaking their studies: “The idea is to give staff the opportunity to build their skills and ultimately become fully qualified accountants. It helps address workforce gaps while offering meaningful career development and creating natural successors for future vacancies,” David explains.

Ashley can now pursue a full accounting qualification with the support of her team, receiving numerous exemptions due to the work she has already undertaken.

Reflecting on her achievement she says: “It wasn't easy trying to juggle working full time, with home life and study… it was hard at times to find the energy to stay focused. But that has made the achievement even more rewarding, that I was able persevere and overcome the challenges.”

New Open Space Strategy approved for East Lothian

A new framework setting out future plans for parks, greenspaces and other public open spaces was approved at a Cabinet meeting last month.

The East Lothian Open Space Strategy (OSS) 2026 reviewed the quality, quantity and accessibility of the parks and open spaces in and around the county’s towns and villages, and was informed by feedback from public consultation.

The OSS is designed to protect and enhance our existing publicly accessible open spaces, aiming to ensure high-quality open spaces are accessible to everyone, while setting out new guidance to provide a high standard of additional locations under the planning process.

It updates and replaces the council's 2018 Open Space Strategy and sets out a 10-year framework for the development, management and use of parks, greenspaces, sports pitches, and other open spaces.

The OSS 2026 aims to help address climate resilience, protect and enhance nature, and benefit people’s health and wellbeing. It will also inform the next Local Development Plan.

Our officers mapped and audited 462 publicly accessible open spaces and greenspaces across the county totalling around 18 million square metres.

The audit identified a “good” range and overall quantity of open spaces with every community having access to “high quality” open space in their area. Priorities for future improvements were noted for some sites.

A range of significant additions to council-owned parks and greenspaces since 2018 were highlighted, including tree planting, play area renewals, and sports and active travel enhancements. The strategy also highlights the important and valued contributions to our parks and open spaces made by volunteers, including ‘Friends of’ parks groups and award-winning ‘In Bloom’ groups.

Last summer, residents were asked to take part in a public consultation on the OSS’s draft findings, including giving their views on what makes a park or greenspace a good place to visit and use. Their views and feedback were incorporated into the strategy’s proposals.

All of the documents relating to the Open Space Strategy are available to view here.

A Ranger writes

Our Countryside Rangers have a wealth of knowledge on the places, plants and species that call East Lothian home. Ranger Richard English offers an insight into the grey plover.

Certain types of birds are particularly associated with the winter months. Thrushes such as fieldfare and redwing can turn up in the UK in large numbers, as can waxwings and other cold weather visitors. Wader species are also more commonly seen in East Lothian during the winter, visiting our shores and estuaries from their summer nesting grounds.

The grey plover is one of these species, breeding in the high arctic before heading south to avoid the harsh winters. The birds that we see in Britain will have predominantly bred in Northern Russia. Over 30,000 of these birds will spend the winter here, whilst many more will pass through on migration, heading for Southern Europe and West Africa (well, you would, wouldn’t you, given the chance?). In Scotland, the main wintering sites are the Forth, Eden and Solway estuaries, although this species can be found on shorelines throughout the country.

The grey plover is a medium sized wader, with an overall ‘chunky’ appearance and it has the characteristic short, stubby bill of plovers generally. The species’ seasonal nature means that most of the birds seen in East Lothian will be in their relatively drab winter plumage. This consists of a spotted white and grey-black back, with white underparts. In flight, the black and white barred tail is obvious, as are the distinctive black ‘armpits’ (wingpits?). Sometimes, during migration periods, you might be lucky enough to see a grey plover in breeding plumage, when the black and white speckling takes on a somehow cleaner and more pronounced appearance. In addition, the throat and belly become black, making a very good-looking bird altogether.

It’s in this plumage that the name grey plover really does a disservice. Its closest relative is the golden plover and, with that in mind, then surely this species should be the silver plover? Indeed, in French and Dutch respectively the bird is called Pluvier argenté and Zilverplevier, which seem much more appropriate. These assorted names are all related to the scientific name Pluvialis squatarola. The genus name Pluvialis is derived from Latin and means ‘rain-related’. It reflects a belief that plovers will flock when rain is imminent. The specific squatarola may be from a Venetian word for a plover or may mean ‘black-bellied’. Incidentally, in North America this species is known as the black-bellied plover.

Grey plover can be found feeding in muddy estuaries and shorelines, when the tide is out. Their short bills mean that they tend to take food at or near the surface, preferring small molluscs, worms and crustaceans. They have a characteristically jerky stop-run-peck feeding action. At high tide, grey plover will be found roosting on quiet sandy or rocky shorelines alongside other waders such as golden plover, redshank and godwits. They are less social than other wader species and are therefore often seen in smaller numbers.

So, the grey plover may not be the most spectacular bird out there, particularly in winter, but it’s very definitely one to look out for along a windswept February shoreline.

Keep up to date

Keep up to date with all things Countryside Ranger on the service’s Facebook or Instagram pages. You’ll find news and information to help you make the most of your time in our coast and countryside spaces as well as beautiful photography of the species that live here.

Facebook: @ELCrangers

Instagram: @elcrangers

Blindwells prospectus published

Seeking Scottish and UK Government support and investment for future development

The Blindwells Development Area is the largest of seven strategic sites included in The Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal (ESES Deal) which have been identified as being able to deliver new housing at pace and scale in the areas where national need and demand is greatest. 

A new Blindwells Prospectus has now been published, setting out the potential benefits that the site could bring locally, regionally, nationally and to the UK as a whole. It highlights the importance of planned support and investment both now and in the years beyond the ESES Deal period. Working with private sector partners, with support from Scottish Futures Trust we are seeking to unlock these strategic benefits through the development of a business case under the ESES Deal for Government consideration. 

Government and wider public and private sector support will be essential to realise the full potential of Blindwells as a well-planned, well-connected new settlement with economic opportunities as well as warm, energy efficient homes, including affordable homes, which can help to address inequality, child poverty and productivity across the region. Government approval of the associated business case stages is necessary to ensure that the potential expansion of Blindwells can be progressed in a properly planned, managed and funded way.

Read the full story and prospectus on our website

New Ageing Well programme

The Ageing Well project promotes healthy lifestyles for older adults in East Lothian. The project is a partnership between our organisation and NHS Lothian.

The Ageing Well project aims to maintain and promote the physical and mental health, wellbeing, and quality of life for older adults in East Lothian through a list of activities.

Some ways Ageing Well can help are:

• set up new activities where there is a demand or a gap
• help sign post you to activities in your area
• help you stay healthy and active for longer

There are also opportunities to volunteer for the Ageing Well Project.

Download the full updated list of activities and health and wellbeing walks below.

Mind, Mood and Menopause

Did you know we have a menopause support group?

The group welcomes women at all stages of the menopause journey, and meets monthly to chat, share practical advice and swap stories. It’s a relaxed, informal space where you can connect with colleagues who understand the challenges you’re facing.

The group meets over Microsoft Teams at 12.30pm on the second Wednesday of each month. 

Our next meeting (12.30pm Wednesday 11 February) will be a special session led by Wendy Armitage, Staff Wellbeing Development Lead at Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership.

The topic will be Mind, Mood, and Menopause - the importance of how our thoughts, emotions and behaviours contribute to what we think, feel and do.

This will be an interactive session for those who are comfortable to participate. It’s an informal session, so feel free to bring along your lunch and be sure to have a pen and paper to hand.

If you’d like to learn more about the group or come along to the next meeting, please email hwl@eastlothian.gov.uk to request the Teams link.

We’d love to see you there!

NHS Inform - Menopause

Wellbeing Hub Scotland                           

 

                            

 

Meditation and mindfulness sessions

Making time for yourself is part of supporting others

Our guided mindfulness sessions offer a peaceful moment away from your desk to help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost overall wellbeing. Just a few minutes of calm can make a big difference for your mind and body. All staff are welcome - no experience needed.

If you’re interested, please make a note of the sessions below.

Jill will offer Heartfulness meditation and Joyce Lukkes will offer mindfulness in February.

Please note room changes due to the elections.

5 February		cancelled
19 February	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
26 February - Mindfulness	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
5 March	1pm	JMH - Room G3 (Ground floor)
19 March	1pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
2 April	12.30pm	JMH - Room G5 (Ground floor)
7 May	12.30pm	JMH - Room G5 (Ground floor)
21 May	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
4 June	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
18 June	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
16 July	12.30pm	JMH - Room G5 (Ground floor)
6 August	12.30pm	JMH - Room G5 (Ground floor)
20 August	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
03 September	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
17 September	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
1 October	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
15 October	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
5 November	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
3 December	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)
17 December	12.30pm	JMH - Room 23 (First floor)

Working inclusively during Lent and Ramadan

As part of our commitment to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace, we recognise the importance of supporting our colleagues who may be observing Lent and Ramadan this year. These religious observances can involve fasting, prayer, reflection and changes to daily routines.

Lent

Lent is a 40-day period observed by many Christians, beginning on Ash Wednesday (18 February 2026) and ending on Holy Saturday (4 April 2026). During Lent, some people choose to fast or give up certain foods or habits, while others may spend additional time in prayer or reflection. Practices vary widely, and not all Christians observe Lent in the same way.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month in Islam, expected to take place approximately from 17 February to 18 March 2026. This start date varies year by year as the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles. Many Muslims fast from dawn until sunset each day, refrain from food and drink (including water), and increase spiritual practices such as prayer and charity. Fasting can be physically demanding, particularly alongside work commitments.

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Supporting our colleagues

Those observing Lent or Ramadan may experience lower energy levels, especially later in the day, and may request flexible working arrangements or adjusted breaks. Some may also prefer quiet spaces for prayer and reflection or wish to avoid meetings or activities focused around food.

It’s important to note that every individual is different and you should speak to your colleagues directly about how best to support them, rather than making assumptions.

Managers can help by:

• having open, respectful conversations with employees observing Lent or Ramadan about their support needs
• offering flexibility where possible (e.g. working hours, breaks, remote working)
• being mindful of workload and meeting times
• planning ahead for annual leave around Easter and Eid (the holy celebrations at the end of Lent and Ramadan)

Colleagues can help by:

• showing understanding if someone declines food or refreshments
• understanding that colleagues who are fasting may be quieter or less energetic than usual
• avoiding assumptions about religious practices
• respecting privacy and personal choices

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Creating an Inclusive Culture

Supporting religious observance is part of fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. Small acts of understanding and flexibility can make a meaningful difference.

If you are observing Lent or Ramadan and would like to discuss support, or if you are a manager seeking advice, please contact your Line Manager and/or HR.