News
Public local inquiry for proposed Musselburgh Flood Protection Scheme
A public local inquiry (PLI) will be held into a scheme to reduce flood risk in Musselburgh after Scottish Ministers wrote to us confirming they would ‘call in’ the proposals.
A preliminary decision was made to confirm the proposed Musselburgh Flood Protection Scheme without modifications during a special meeting of Council on 30 September 2025.
During that meeting, councillors also approved a separate amendment asking Scottish Ministers to consider the proposals and establish a PLI. The final decision on the scheme progressing would then be made by Ministers independently.
Fresh consideration
In their letter confirming the decision last month, Ministers stated a public local inquiry would “provide an opportunity for fresh consideration of the proposed scheme through an external, independent process”.
The scheme will now be referred to the Planning and Environmental Appeals Division in the Scottish Government who will appoint a Reporter to hold the inquiry. Once a Reporter is appointed, it's understood an update on the process will be possible and that they will contact all relevant objectors.
Musselburgh’s flood history
The proposed scheme, which aims to reduce flood risk for up to 3,200 properties in the Musselburgh area, moved to the next stage of development following September’s Council meeting. That preliminary decision was taken after our officers presented a report setting out the history of flooding in Musselburgh and the increasing threat it poses from the river, the coast, and the impacts of climate change. In addition, the report detailed the engagement carried out with the local community to help develop the proposals.
Councillors further agreed that the project team, working in consultation with the planning authority, should seek to deliver 54 changes to the proposed scheme.
The proposed scheme has been developed to bring about a major reduction to the flood risk to Musselburgh, preventing flood water spilling onto the natural flood plains on which the town was built over the centuries.
New Year, new school for Whitecraig Primary
Whitecraig Primary colleagues and pupils have started the New Year in a new school.
Staff were on hand last Wednesday to welcome children to their new school which has been developed on land adjacent to the previous building.
Designed in-house
Designed by our in-house team in the Strategic Asset and Capital Plan Management service, the new school provides a striking landmark at the village’s western edge with its charcoal grey brick exterior, copper-coloured cladding and accents and sawtooth-shaped roof.
The building has eight classrooms and an Early Years centre to meet demand from a growing school population in the area.
A new signalised junction with Whitecraig Road was included as part of the project to create a safer route for cyclists and pedestrians.
Calming and nurturing spaces
Inside our interiors team has chosen colours, textures and finishes to create calming and nurturing spaces that reflect the area’s local history and landscape with ample references to the natural world. A palette of gentle greens echoes the fields around the village offset by soft blues and blush pink with timber dividers and light maple doors.
Flashes of mustard mirror the school’s yellow badge while charcoal and slate-coloured wall and flooring finishes link to Whitecraig’s mining heritage.
The project received funding from phase one of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Investment Programme, administered by Scottish Future’s Trust. Morrison Construction was awarded the £18.5m contact in February 2024 following a competitive tender process.
'New possibilities'
Whitecraig Primary School Head Teacher Viv Short said: “Opening the doors of our new building at Whitecraig Primary School is a truly special moment for us all. It represents not just new walls and classrooms, but new possibilities for our children - spaces where curiosity can flourish, confidence can grow and every young person can be supported to be the best they can be.
“Whitecraig Primary School has always been at the heart of its community, and our new building strengthens that connection, providing a welcoming place for families, partners and neighbours to come together. We are immensely proud of this next chapter and deeply thankful to everyone who has helped make it possible.”
Work has now begun to disconnect and safely demolish the old school building before the ground is landscaped.
Congratulations to everyone involved in this project.
Vision for East Lothian's young people published
A new strategy has been introduced to make sure young people are safe, heard and included in our area.
The East Lothian Youth Vision is our Strategy for Youth Work over the three years from 2026 to 2029.
Our Vision is that, through youth work, young people in East Lothian are safe, heard and included.
Developed by young people
The document was developed by young people, youth work organisations, our council and key partners across East Lothian.
This plan sets out our goals for 2026-2029. It outlines how we will deliver positive impacts for young people, focusing on three core goals:
- children and young people feel safer in their communities
- children and young people’s ideas and experiences will be heard, listened to and acted upon
- children and young people feel included in their communities
Working collaboratively
To make this happen, we’ll work collaboratively and track progress through an oversight group. Each year, we’ll publish an Impact Report to celebrate achievements, share stories, achievements and reflect on challenges.
One of our first priorities in 2026 will be to work with a group of young people to produce a young person-friendly version for the Youth Vision.
Young people have already shared their experiences on the importance of youth work, highlighting how it helps them to gain independence and new skills. One commented “since it is getting dark in the evenings my mum lets me stay out later because i am in youth club,” while another added “To feel included we need options... we want the same opportunities as other people get.”
Find out more
Read the East Lothian Youth Vision on our website and, to find out more please, email Connected Communities East Lothian.
Learn more about two of our fabulous Specialist Youth Workers, Vanda and Janet, in this month's Inform.
Safe, secure and suitable for everyone
All colleagues are being reminded of the importance of their role to secure information, buildings and keep shared working spaces fit for everyone.
Information security and clean desk policy
Our offices hold large amounts of information about the people and organisations we work with. Much of this is sensitive, personal data and we have a responsibility to keep this secure.
- keep your laptop locked when away from your desk (ctrl+alt+del) and securely stored in your locker if away for a longer period of time
- tidy any paper files away appropriately and in secure locations in line with your service arrangements to make sure the information it contains remains confidential
- avoid 'informal meetings' in corridor and communal areas or taking phone calls when private and/or confidential matters may be overheard by others. Instead plan ahead and use pods or meeting spaces for confidential discussions
Building security
- always wear your ID when in the office don’t allow anyone you don’t know into the building
- make sure that doors fully shut behind you when entering or leaving the buildings and, if you see anything suspicious, speak to reception team
- if you are expecting a visitor please make sure they are met and escorted to the meeting place and also escorted back to the public areas afterwards
Shared spaces
Our offices are shared spaces that all colleagues can use. To keep them suitable and to support our facilities management team, please:
- tidy away any personal effects in shared spaces and use sanitising wipes provided to clean the keyboard, mouse and any surfaces
- please clean your own mugs, cutlery and plates and help to keep the communal kitchen areas tidy
- if you have a meeting and provide refreshments to attendees, please clear everything up after your event and leave kitchens clean and tidy
- take a turn at exchanging full recycling containers for an empty one
Thank you for playing your part to keep our information and building safe and secure and our shared spaces tidy.
East Lothian Reads
What are you reading?
Something big is coming in January 2026. We want everyone in our communities to be talking about what they’re reading.
And we’re not just talking about traditional books - it can be everything from comics, magazines and graphic novels to newspapers real or virtual, blogs and audio books.
Our library service has secured £16,000 funding from the Scottish Government’s Public Libraries Improvement Fund for this year-long reading for pleasure project.
While libraries will be at the heart of this new project, we’re focusing on our communities and looking for individuals to join us as ambassadors and for community groups to get involved.
What’s it called?
East Lothian Reads. Nice and simple and we hope you will be seeing our logo all over East Lothian next year.
Why are we doing this?
We want everyone to know that there are so many benefits to reading for pleasure. Lots of studies have shown that it not only helps our young people with their learning and attainment, it can also reduce stress levels for people of all ages. Compared to non-readers, regular readers are 86% more likely to report feeling a sense of belonging to their community, 58% are more likely to report feeling generally happy, 51% are more likely to report finding it easy to relax and 45% are more likely to report sleeping well. They are also 35% more likely to say they don’t feel lonely and 32% more likely say they don’t feel anxious or depressed.
Families understand how important it is for their children to learn to read but with less time and fewer resources, supporting them to do so can feel like something else to add to the long list of parenting activities to feel guilty about not having time to do. It takes a village to raise a child and we’re asking the whole East Lothian community to get behind us in supporting our children and young people discover the benefits of reading for pleasure and those participating will also reap the benefits. Reading regularly can improve wellbeing, increase empathy, reduce loneliness, and tackle poverty. Just 10 minutes a day can make a difference!
More detail
We’ll be making an official announcement at the end of this month but to give you a preview, we’ll be holding events in communities for adults, children and young people, in each of the area partnership localities. These events where possible will not take place in libraries - this campaign is designed to appeal to those who are less likely to be engaged in reading already.
A panel will choose three collections of books across the year with multiple copies of each book available for loan in libraries and through our eBook and eAudiobook platforms.
We’ll be supporting interested services, groups and organisations to get involved with resources available if required. We’ll be inviting members of the public and partners to join us at a couple of events learning how we choose the books available for loan in our libraries and involving them in the process to help ensure our stock reflects our local communities. We’ll be working with school classes to involve them in redesigning library class visits.
Our ask of you
We have a number of working groups led by members of our libraries team and would like to invite anyone who would be interested in bringing your knowledge and experience to join us either in a working group or as a participant in the project. The groups will meet on Teams, attendance is not required at each meeting, but any input would be very much valued.
- planning and organising events - our experience is in appealing to readers, your perspective would support us to think more widely about what might appeal to your communities and clients
- selecting books for the collections - we want these collections to have as wide an appeal as possible, and potentially be available outside of libraries - could you help with this?
- engaging with partners - you know your communities and clients well and could help us engage with those less likely to use libraries to find out how we can best support them
- designing toolkit activities - we’d love your ideas on how to ensure our toolkit activities are simple to use and have the potential to engage as wide an audience as possible - are there ways we can support you with resources to participate in your own spaces or with your clients? Can you help us evaluate them?
- promoting the campaign - with your knowledge of your local community and clients, could you be reading ambassadors or identify others to do this, helping spread the word, encourage reading conversations and get East Lothian reading
We’re working with the literacy strategy leadership group to evaluate whether the project has influenced attainment and will be measuring community involvement through qualitative and quantitative measures looking at levels of interest and engagement at the beginning, end and throughout the campaign.
Our aim is that you’ll see the East Lothian Reads logo across the county over the coming year from our launch towards the end of January onwards. If you’re interested in the project and would like to get involved in any capacity then please contact us at libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk or speak to a member of staff in your local library.
Help us create beautiful music together: musical instrument lending library seeks donations
Our Arts and Library Services are asking the public to consider donating any unwanted musical instruments to help in the creation of a new Instrument Lending Library for East Lothian.
The Library Service are adding musical instruments to their lending collections, creating an Instrument Library - where people can borrow an instrument for six weeks at a time, at no cost.
To enable this to happen, they are asking for donations of unused/unwanted instruments which will then be given a service before being added to the library catalogue.
People can drop off donations at Musselburgh, Prestonpans, Tranent, Haddington, Dunbar or North Berwick Libraries, or Library HQ at Dunbar Road, Haddington, during opening hours.
Community Music Development Officer Charlotte McMillan, said: “We need donations of instruments to get started. From clarinets to violins, cornets to mandolins, anything goes! We are also looking for donations of digital equipment for either music production or DJ-ing. If you have any items sitting around unused that need a new lease of life, please consider letting us care for them. We will maintain them and make sure they are put to good use.”
People may wish to borrow an instrument to find out if they would like to learn to play it, to relearn an old skill, to take part in a workshop, or just to have some fun. This project allows our libraries to breathe new life into old instruments, allowing all ages the chance to make music. Along with instruments, borrowers will be issued with a guide to help them start playing and basic instrument care instructions.
This is a fantastic opportunity to re-use instruments and to spread the joy of music. All donations are welcome, but for large instruments such as tubas, cellos and drumkits, or if donating more than a couple of instruments, donors are asked to fill in a form first on our website www.eastlothian.gov.uk/arts or email hannah.mccooke@mepgscotland.org .
This new initiative from our Arts and Libraries Services, is in partnership with We Make Music initiative from the Music Education Partnership Group (MEPG). Founded in 2015, MEPG is a network of music-based organisations with a Scottish focus. It was set up to promote and celebrate the life-long benefits of a music education and to advocate that the transformative potential of music should be experienced by everyone in Scotland.
The project is funded by Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative through MEPG, with support from East Lothian Council’s Arts Service and Library Service.
Instrument donation at Haddington Library. L-R Eilidh McSporran Senior Customer Services Assistant and Mona Burns
Step Count Challenge 2025 update
30 Teams walk their way to success
In November 2025, 30 teams from across our services took part in Walking Scotland’s Step Count Challenge - and the results were incredible!
Over four weeks, colleagues logged their daily steps, supported each other and embraced the benefits of staying active. Thanks to the efforts of our Healthy Working Lives group, every team was able to participate free of charge, ensuring no barriers to getting involved.
The numbers speak for themselves:
Total steps logged: 34,403,484
Top-performing teams:
-
- Roadrunners (17th overall) 2,239,560 steps
- Tranent Trailblazers (19th overall) 2,214,928 steps
- Planning Pacemakers (44th overall) 1,996,155 steps
Beyond the impressive stats, participants reported feeling more energised, focused and connected with colleagues. Many discovered new walking routes and enjoyed the chance to get outdoors during the darker months.
The Step Count Challenge will return later this year, and we’d love to see even more teams join in! Start thinking about who you’ll team up with and keep an eye out for more details soon.
Museums highlights from 2025
Throughout 2025, our museums hosted a diverse range of exhibitions celebrating local heritage, creativity, and stories. Displays explored the rich history of Dunbar Town House, showcased treasures from the council art collection, and paid tribute to local D-Day veteran Charlie Horne.
We were proud to exhibit works by Ukrainian artists, displays from Martha Ellis, Kenneth Wilson, Fisherrow-born artist and musician James Burnet Munro (1925–1990) and his family, NorthLight Arts, and the European Land Art Festival. Young people across East Lothian inspired us with climate-action-themed artworks, while another exhibition delved into the fascinating history of Dunbar High Street shop fronts. A particular highlight was an extraordinary collection of Scottish artworks generously loaned by a local collector.
Many of these exhibitions were researched and developed by local individuals and groups, with our team providing support every step of the way.
Alongside our vibrant exhibition programme, we delivered events as part of Doors Open Day, the East Lothian Walking Festival, Dunbar Art Route, and Archaeology and Local History Fortnight. We celebrated local industries with Brick Day and Pottery Day and even hosted an Escape Room designed by S2 pupils from Dunbar Grammar School - a real crowd-pleaser!
Brick Day
2025 at a glance:
Visitors: 29,235 in total (23,973 adults and 5,262 children/young people), including 39 school and learner groups
Loan boxes: 33 boxes used, reaching around 250 adults and 840 children
Events: 31 for children, young people, and families; 27 for adults
Collections: 68 new objects accessioned
Exhibitions: 17 exhibitions, 10 of which were community-led - each the result of countless hours of collaboration
Volunteering: Over 900 volunteer hours supporting front-of-house, research, collections work, and more
Visitor feedback:
- 84% rated John Muir’s Birthplace as “very good”
- Around 60% said their visit to John Muir’s Birthplace inspired lifestyle changes in response to the climate emergency
- 94% rated Prestongrange Museum as “very good” or “good”
We’re excited for a busy and fun 2026, but for now, we hope you enjoy this snapshot of a great year!
Scottish Parliament Election: Poll and count staff needed
Our Election Team are looking for staff to work at polling places on Thursday 7 May and at the count, taking place during the day, on Friday 8 May. A fee will be paid for all election roles.
Training is mandatory for all poll staff; online training to be completed at a time convenient to you and a briefing session via Teams will take place on Tuesday 21 April, 6pm to 7pm. Additional in-person training will be available for new poll staff.
The count will take place, during the day, on Friday 8 May, therefore, with your manager’s approval, it will be possible to work on both polling day and the count. Staff will require their manager’s authorisation to release them for the day(s).
You are not required to take annual leave or flexi to work on polling day and the count.
You must be 18 or over.
If interested, please complete the application form and return to the Election Team elections@eastlothian.gov.uk by Friday 6 February.
Download and complete the application form available through the homepage of the intranet.
External staff also have the opportunity to apply to work on polling day, further details available here
For further details please contact elections@eastlothian.gov.uk
Planning Committee approves plans for glamping pods near Pencaitland
At a meeting of East Lothian Planning Committee yesterday (13 January), members approved plans for four glamping pods on land east of 23A Boggs Holdings.
The application was first heard at committee in August 2025 but was continued to allow the applicant the opportunity to address some of the points raised during the debate, which included the size of the development, location of parking, management arrangements and the impact on neighbouring properties, the local road and animals in the adjoining field. The proposal was then revised and re-submitted by the applicant.
Changes included; the number of glamping pods reduced from six to four, the location eight metres further away from the closest neighbouring property, a remote parking area, an increase in proposed planting and landscaping, additional new fencing, fire beater stations and changes to the management plan and audio monitoring system.
A total of 15 objections were received, mainly citing the potential impact on neighbouring properties.
Following a debate, there were five votes in favour of upholding the officer’s recommendation to approve the plans, with two additional conditions, and five votes to refuse permission. Convener Norman Hampshire’s casting vote meant the plans were approved. The additional conditions are that details of external lighting and fencing be submitted and approved by the Planning Authority in advance of development.
The relevant application number is 24/01122/P.
Employee consultations go live
Our HR team has two employee consultations going live tomorrow.
Employees are invited to review and feedback on the council’s draft Prevention of Sexual Harassment policy and refreshed Redundancy policy. Consultation opens Thursday 15 January and will be available via the links below. The consultation will close on Thursday 5 February 2026 and all feedback is welcomed.
Review and comment on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment policy
Review and comment on the Redundancy policy
What's On
A new year of entertainment from The Brunton
Brunton Theatre Trust welcomes in a new year at venues in Haddington and Musselburgh. The Trust provides high quality arts and entertainment with music, comedy, theatre, children’s shows, talks and cinema - all in the programme for the coming months.
East Lothian’s celebrated children’s theatre company Catherine Wheels, bring Lightning Ridge to Haddington on Saturday 7 February at 2pm. 12-year-old Ashmol lives in the Australian Outback, with his parents and little sister Kellyanne. When Pobby and Dingan disappear, Ashmol is happy that the imaginary friends are out of this life, but Kellyanne becomes sicker and sicker. Finally, Ashmol decides that he must find Pobby and Dingan. This is a beautiful piece of storytelling recommended for ages 8 plus.
Lightning Ridge
The Brunton is collaborating with Haddstock, Haddington based music festival, to present a fantastic concert with Bombskare and support from Fright Years on Saturday 21 February at the Corn Exchange. Bombskare deliver an energy-packed, infectious blend of classic Jamaican ska beats, punk, rock and humour. Edinburgh’s Fright Years craft emotionally charged, guitar-driven indie rock. With sold out shows in Edinburgh and Glasgow and a slot at TRSMT 2025, they are one of the UK’s most exciting new acts.
Trad music fans are in for a treat when Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle play the Corn Exchange on Friday 20 February. These celebrated folk musicians bring their own blend of top-class folk songs, tunes and charming bonhomie.
Then Blazin’ Fiddles, one of the most lauded and best-loved acts of the Scottish music scene, play Haddington on Thursday 5 March. The group’s quicksilver fiddle playing from Jenna Reid, Kristan Harvie and Rua Macmillan, is accompanied by Angus Lyon (piano) and Anna Massie (guitar).
Blazin' Fiddles
Comedy is proving to be a winner for audiences at the Corn Exchange and The Brunton continues to build on this successful programme for 2026 with Milton Jones and Friends on Saturday 7 March, Jack Docherty aka Chief Commissioner Miekelson (Scot Squad) on Friday 3 April and a mixed bill The Scottish Comedians (Des McLean, Raymond Mearns, Gareth Waugh, Gareth Much and Jay Lafferty) on Thursday 23 April.
Milton Jones
The Junkie Miracles, a funny, emotional and thought provoking play, comes to the Corn Exchange on Saturday 4 April. From 12 Step Productions, this is the story of four recovering drug addicts on the day they decided to get help. Written by Des Dillon the award-winning writer of Singing I’m No A Billy, He’s A Tim.
The Brunton is based at Loretto Theatre in Musselburgh for the Midweek Movies film programme. The raked auditorium and big screen provide the cinema experience for fortnightly films, the next being Eleanor The Great on Wednesday 21 January and Song Sung Blue on Wednesday 4 February. Eleanor The Great is directed by Scarlett Johansson and starts June Squibb as 94 year old Eleanor Morgenstein who through grief finds herself caught in a lie with unintended consequences. Song, Sung Blue stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson as Lightning and Thunder, a Neil Diamond tribute act who experience soaring success and devastating heartbreak on their musical journey together.
Fans of West End Theatre can also enjoy National Theatre Live screenings at Loretto Theatre in Musselburgh, with Hamlet on Thursday 22 January. This sharp, stylish and darkly funny reimagining of Shakespeare’s tragedy, stars Olivier award winning Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) as Hamlet. There will be more screenings throughout the year, including The Audience on Thursday 26 March. Helen Mirren plays Queen Elizabeth in a screening of the play that inspired the Netflix phenomenon, The Crown.
Musselburgh also welcomes back favourite comedian Craig Hill with Wait ‘Til You See My Entrance on Saturday 21 February at Loretto Theatre. Craig returns to East Lothian on 29 May when he brings the show back to Haddington’s Corn Exchange.
Northesk Church in Musselburgh has a fantastic acoustic and is a beautiful setting for The Brunton’s Bite-Sized Concerts at Lunchtime series. These monthly concerts provide the opportunity for optional soup and sandwich, followed by an hour-long concert. Atelier Ensemble perform on Tuesday 10 February with a jazz and tango influenced concert. Grim Twinkle perform on Tuesday 10 March – a sparkling new collaboration of leading folk musicians, and Duo Concordia take us on A Journey Across Spain and Latin America on Tuesday 7 April.
Atelier Ensemble
The Brunton brings I Clara – Clara Schumann, A Life In Music to Northesk Church on Saturday 18 April. This highly acclaimed narrative concert was created by pianist Lucy Parham, using Clara Schumann’s letters and diaries to tell her story, accompanied by her own works and music from Robert Schumann, Brahms, Liszt, Mendelssohn and Chopin. Well known actress Joanna David (Miss Marple, Foyle’s War, Midsomer Murders, Agatha Raisin) narrates.
Also, at Northesk Church, Songs from the Last Page is a spell-binding concert performed by acclaimed songwriter, Gareth Williams, on Saturday 25 April. Each song takes the last lines of iconic Scottish literature, capturing how the reader feels to finish the story. Sung from the piano accompanied by violin and cello – a true celebration of creativity.
The Brunton’s programme takes place at Corn Exchange in Haddington and Loretto Theatre and Northesk Church in Musselburgh. Full information and tickets are available from www.thebrunton.co.uk
What's on in our museums
Come in out of the cold
We loved this review by a John Muir’s Birthplace visitor “We ended up here on a freezing January afternoon. What an excellent find - thoughtfully curated, warm and friendly. We got a real feel for John Muir's life and legacy, which has inspired us to learn more. Our daughter also enjoyed the little corners with books, toys, and activities to keep her occupied whilst we went around.”
Museums are warm, friendly and free to visit with regularly changing craft activities suitable for children and families as well as temporary exhibitions and reference books available to browse and read.
New exhibition
Visions of Haddington
National Library of Scotland
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 our 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.
Flight disruption
Saturday 6 December to Saturday 31 January
Free admission
Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm
John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ
This exhibition is a collection of prints of wild British birds that are impacted by climate change. Climate change is affecting our birds in many ways: warming seas impact the food chain, rising sea levels change the geography of where birds can breed and lay eggs, bad weather can make it hard to find food and feed young and extreme temperatures can make survival difficult. Numbers of British birds are predicted to fall drastically over the coming years. The exhibition features original, hand-pulled, linocut prints of birds seen along the coast of East Lothian. Many of the birds featured are impacted in some way by climate change and are either on the red or amber list of the BTO Birds of Conservation Concern in the UK.
Winter season museum opportunities
Explore historic records and online exhibitions at johngraycentre.org
Revisit past exhibitions from John Muir’s Birthplace jmbt.org.uk
Explore the paths around Prestongrange Museums using the mobile phone tour as a guide through 400 years of local industry. eastlothian.gov.uk/prestongrange
Take a tour of Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery with Dunbar and District History Society on a Saturday afternoon. eastlothian.gov.uk/dunbar-town-house
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)
Our People
Thank you! Celebrating staff compliments
Individuals, teams and departments across the council regularly receive compliments from residents, visitors, staff and businesses. Here's a selection:
Local resident: Revenue and Benefits. Yet again East Lothian Council have excelled themselves in customer service. Today I phoned the contact number on the form for your office and spoke to Len who was so helpful and never rushed me as I explained my situation. In addition, another young lady was equally helpful at the Customer service desk, and while ever the consummate professional she treated me with courtesy and reassured me that the form and the copied statements I had given her would find their way to the correct destination. Please pass on my sincere thanks to both of them. They are rare in this fast-paced world we live in and how refreshing to come across compassionate and kind people. Made my day.
Local resident: Waste Services. I recently hired a van to empty out my dad’s house/garage and clear up mine a bit. I found the online booking system for vans really easy to use, and over the course of the weekend made three trips to Kinwegar. The staff that were on duty over the weekend were very helpful, courteous and nothing seemed too much trouble to them. I was there for considerable time periods unloading and throughout these periods, despite the inclement weather, they were out, offering guidance, signposting members of the public to the correct receptacles. Well done!
Local resident: Customer Services. A big thank-you to Vicky Tait who aided Jenny when her stair-lift broke down. Jenny wanted to pass on her thanks as she thinks that Vicky went above and beyond to assist.
Vanda and Janet celebrate national award achievement
Specialist Youth Workers Vanda Dow and Janet McCormack are celebrating after achieving their Professional Development Award in Youth Work.
The national qualification is delivered over four months involving three separate units, assessments and a practical placement and observation within their workplace or youth club. Both women completed their Awards alongside their council roles and their work with the young people they support.
Vanda's story
Vanda (pictured right) started working with young people 16 years ago as a volunteer football coach, eventually opening her own football club in Port Seton which brought her into contact with former Community Development Officer Paul Thewlis. “Paul saw how successful we were that he asked if I ever fancied doing youth work. I thought ‘yeah, ok let’s give it a go!’,” she says, laughing.
She began delivering youth work sessions for us twice a week while also working in insurance and juggling family life. Her enthusiasm and natural connection with children and young people has seen her lead many other projects, including the senior’s youth café which runs at Port Seton Community Centre on Wednesday and Friday evenings. “Previously very few young people attended,” says Vanda.
“We worked hard to eventually change the mindset of the young people from P7 to high school that this is the place to be hanging about especially in the winter months. It has continued to be so popular.”
The youth café proved to be the catalyst for Vanda’s move into youth work full time. “I loved the satisfaction I got within the youth café. Working with teenagers from S1 – S6 it inspired me and it allowed me to identify my vocation. The job as Specialist Youth Worker in Musselburgh cluster came around three and a half years ago and allowed me to leave 30 years of Insurance and follow my passion.”
Vanda loves her role, which she describes as ‘a privilege’ and her mantra of “I embrace challenges as opportunities to grow” applies not only to her, but to the young people she works with. “It never feels like you are at work,” she explains. “The satisfaction knowing I am supporting young people to steer them in the direction of managing risk, raise aspirations and make informed decisions on a daily basis is a privilege.”
Janet's story
Like Vanda, Janet (right) had long experience in youth work before moving into the field as her permanent career. “I’ve volunteered in various youth organisations for 25 years and made many amazing friends and experiences along the way. I still volunteer with a youth organisation in my spare time,” she says.
When she moved to East Lothian from South London in 2020, Janet jumped at the chance to become a youth worker with us, before coming on board full-time in 2023 as a Specialist Youth Worker in Preston Seton Gosford.
“Moving into the role and being able to work in partnership with young people in the community and their schools has been fabulous,” explains Janet. “I enjoy the vitality and energy the comes when engaging with young people and helping them enhance and develop.”
When the opportunity came up to develop her own skills, Janet jumped again. “It was a great way to build my confidence, learning about the history of youth work, themes and best practice, she says. “Coming together with other youth workers sharing ideas and experiences and recognising the scope of youth work and its importance in our communities has been brilliant and I’ve been able to bring new skills, ideas and resources back into my role.”
"Extraordinary commitment"
Head of Communities and Partnerships Eamon John praised Vanda and Janet for their achievements, saying: “Their commitment to young people and to youth work is extraordinary with decades-long volunteering and then through their full-time roles. To add a professional qualification on top of that is no mean feat. The award has allowed them to reflect on their significant experience, build on it and bring their enhanced knowledge back to our teams to benefit the wider service and the young people we work with. I’m delighted for them both.”
Congratulations to Vanda and Janet!
Find out how we will ensure children and young people are safe, heard and included through our Youth Vision Strategy.
Green Corner
A Ranger writes: the weird and wonderful world of lichens
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 weird and wonderful world of lichens.
As I’ve written in the past, fungi are strange - neither plant nor animal, but their own separate biological kingdom. However, if you want really weird then look no further than lichens. They’ll grow on trees, soil, gravestones, seashore rocks and pretty much everywhere else. The thing that makes lichens so odd, and so brilliant, is that they are not just one simple organism. Instead, they are two very different species living together for their mutual benefit (a relationship known as symbiosis).
Within any lichen the main “partner” is a species of fungus, known as a mycobiont. The other partner, the photobiont, is a green alga, or less commonly a species of cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae, although they’re not actually algae at all). Occasionally, a lichen containing a fungus and an alga will also have cyanobacteria kicking around in there, thus having all three of the potential partners.
So, why do these various organisms bother to get together like this? Well, each brings something different to the party. The fungus can derive mineral nutrients from the surrounding environment and provides a sheltered habitat for the alga. In turn, the alga can produce chemical food for the whole organism through photosynthesis.
Lichens come in four main categories:
- crustose (crusty)
- squamulose (scaly)
- oliose (leafy)
- fruticose (branched or bushy)
Xanthoria
Xanthoria is a genus of foliose lichens which can be found growing on rocks and trees. Some species of Xanthoria favour seashore rocks, which has led to them being called “shore lichens”. They take the form of bright yellow splodges, sometimes with orangey cup-like structures dotted throughout. These cups generate the spores by which the lichens reproduce. This lichen’s name is derived from xanthos, the Greek for “yellow”. On a cold, grey January’s day the appearance of Xanthoria can definitely brighten things up.
A much less obvious, but equally fascinating lichen genus is Ramalina. These are fruticose lichens, taking the form of grey-green flattened branches usually growing on rocks. They can take the appearance of rather dodgy-looking pasta. Some species are particularly fond of coastal rocks on which seabirds perch. The birds, or rather their guano, produce a high level of nutrients on the rock surface and the lichen’s fungal element can exploit this to the full.
Ramalina Polymorpha
Lichens may not be the most obvious or glamorous of organisms, they may also be very difficult to identify. However, they form a vital part of a healthy environment. Lichens are used for food and shelter by a range of insects and other invertebrates. In some cases they are also eaten by much larger animals, including reindeer. Small birds such as long-tailed tits and goldcrests use lichens as camouflage or decoration when building their nests. Perhaps their most important use (for us at least) is as indicators of air quality - many species are very intolerant of pollution and so will only flourish in areas with clean air.
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
Primary schools 'Leg it to Lapland'
Nearly 1800 pupils in East Lothian took part in the Leg it to Lapland challenge run by the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.
While walking, scooting or cycling to school, the pupils clocked up an amazing total of 16,660 miles - enough to get from Scotland to Lapland and back three times over.
The 1756 youngsters hailed from Haddington Primary, Wallyford Primary, Stenton Primary, West Barns Primary and St Gabriel’s RC Primary in Prestonpans.
We joined with the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to ask primary schools to sign up, and East Lothian had the highest number of pupils taking part amongst all of Scotland’s local authorities.
They were challenged to walk, scoot or cycle to school last month to reach a combined tally matching the 2400 mile distance from Scotland to Santa’s home in Lapland before Christmas Day. Extra miles could be earned by taking part in other types of exercise, both as part of the school day or at home.
Leg it to Lapland is run as part of Walk Wheel Cycle Trust’s I Bike programme which works to encourage a whole school approach to active travel.
Across Scotland, more than 30 schools and almost 5000 pupils took part in the challenge. Collectively they travelled a total of 60,742 miles.
Dr Cecilia Oram, Head of Active Journeys at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust in Scotland, said: “We are thrilled to have had almost 5000 pupils take part from schools across Scotland.
“We know that young people want to stay active, but they need more support to do so - whether that be safer routes to school or challenges like this that their school can take part in.
“This has been a great nudge to help us all get outdoors and stay active, especially as the days draw in. The pupils’ determination shows that they are not daunted by any weather.”
The Walk Wheel Cycle Trust have made a short film celebrating the efforts of children taking part. The film features pupils from Wallyford Primary School, Haddingtion Primary School and St Gabriel’s RC Primary School.
Partnership
Review finds communities are safer, supported and more financially resilient
People in East Lothian are safer, have better support to care and are more financially resilient thanks to work carried out by the East Lothian Partnership in 2024/25.
Established in law as statutory bodies, Community Planning Partnerships bring together public organisations and communities to identify priorities and plan services.
'Meaningful difference'
As a member of the East Lothian Partnership, we work closely with a wide range of local agencies including Police, NHS, East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, Fire Service and the voluntary sector to address poverty and inequality and make a meaningful difference in the county.
A review of the Partnership’s key achievements in 2024/25 highlighted the benefits of this collective approach including:
- vital support for people living with dementia and their carers at the Musselburgh Meeting Centre. Regular sessions and peer support improved carers’ wellbeing while encouraging an inclusive and compassionate approach to dementia in the wider community
- early work to tackle emerging issues on police incidents, fires and antisocial behaviour, and to provide multi-agency support to tackle wider issues where needed, such as supporting a resident after a fire at their home where mental health and substance issues were present
- among other cases, an advice consortium supporting people with financial issues helped one local person write-off £72,000 on a mortgage shortfall that was being pursued despite the property being repossessed 11 years earlier
Each of these examples involved a group of agencies working together to provide joined-up support.
LOIP 2026-2036
The East Lothian Partnership is in the final stages of preparing its 2026-2036 Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP). Following extensive engagement health, safety and poverty emerged as the top issues affecting people in East Lothian which has resulted in the new plan adopting Money Matters, Keeping Safe and Living Well as its key themes. The LOIP will be published in early 2026.
For further information please visit: The East Lothian Partnership website.
Information Hub 'One Stop Shop' at Prestonpans Community Centre
East Lothian Information Hubs are ‘One Stop Shop’ events where members of the public can engage with multiple organisations face-to-face. They offer information, advice, support and guidance around everyday living concerns and can answer enquiries on a range of subjects such as local social activities, financial support and health and wellbeing.
Upcoming event:
The next Information Hub event will be held on
Monday 2 February
2:30pm to 4:30pm
Pestonpans Community Centre
Attending the event are a number of organisations and support services who will provide advice, information and support covering the following subject areas:
Health and wellbeing
- Changes (Mental Health)
- Eastspace (Mental Health)
- Ageing Well
- East Lothian Learning Disability Team
- Physical Activity Referral Programme
- NHS Lothian Mental Health Digital Team
- East Lothian Rehabilitation Service
Money matters
- Citizens Advice Bureau
- East Lothian Council Revenue and Rents
- East Lothian Housing Association
Employment support
- East Lothian Works
- Skills Development Scotland
- Job Centre / DWP
- Changeworks
Parent, child and family support
- Acorn Trust
- Families Together
- HomeStart
- Breastfeeding LENS
- Midlothian Sure Start
- NHS Lothian Infant Feeding Team
Advocacy and support
- CAPS
- Carers of East Lothian
- Milan
Food and community
- Volunteer Centre East Lothian
- East Lothian Foodbank
Travel and climate
- East Lothian Climate Hub
- East Lothian Council Active Travel Team
There will be free refreshments and activities that young children can enjoy while parents speak to organisations.
More information is available at www.volunteereastlothian.org.uk/information-hubs
Free webinars to help employers boost recruitment and retention
East Lothian businesses are being offered free guidance to boost recruitment and retain staff through fair and flexible work.
As part of East Lothian Community Wealth Building, and alongside our partners, we have launched a new series of free webinars to help local employers tackle skills shortages, strengthen retention and adopt fair, flexible working practices that benefit both businesses and staff.
The three online sessions, delivered in partnership with Flexible Working Scotland, will give local businesses practical guidance on how fair and flexible work can improve productivity, widen access to talent and support grant and tender readiness, among other benefits.
The webinars will offer expert advice, tools and case studies on topics such as the Fair Work Framework, flexible job design, inclusive recruitment, predictable working patterns, and the business benefits of people-centred employment practices. Each session includes a local employer sharing real-world experiences and practical lessons learned.
Webinar dates: The business benefits of fair and flexible working
- 29 January 10am to 11.30am - Small and Micro Employers (1 to 49 employees)
- 25 February midday to 1.30pm - Third Sector (charities etc)
- 10 March 10am to 11.30am - Medium and Large Employers (over 49 employees)
The webinars are open to any employer based in or operating within East Lothian, from micro-businesses and charities to large private-sector employers - please highlight this to any businesses you know or deal with who may be interested..
Participation is free but places must be booked in advance.
Improve your Excel skills for free with Edinburgh College
We're working in partnership with Edinburgh College to offer Excel beginner, intermediate and advanced courses. These courses are designed to improve your excel skills, with funded places offered through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Multiply Programme.
The free courses will introduce learners to a range of practical skills and acquire relevant underpinning knowledge, learn how to create visualisations such as graphs and charts from data and interpret their meanings. They will learn the foundational understanding of Excel that is necessary to create and work electronically with spreadsheets and to organise, calculate, analyse, revise, update and present data in a numerical and visual form. They will also learn the power of data analysis and presentation and explore issues relating to data security and data bias to make informed, intelligent organisational decisions. All courses will be delivered in the evenings at Edinburgh College's Milton Road campus 24 Milton Road East, Edinburgh EH15 2PP.
| Session dates |
Level |
Time |
Room |
| 12 February 2026 |
Beginner |
6pm to 9pm |
M1-16, Edinburgh College, Milton Road |
| 26 February 2026 |
Intermediate/Advanced |
6pm to 9pm |
M1-16, Edinburgh College, Milton Road |
| 19 March 2026 |
Beginner |
6pm to 9pm |
M1-16, Edinburgh College, Milton Road |
| 26 March 2026 |
Intermediate/Advanced |
6pm to 9pm |
M1-16, Edinburgh College, Milton Road |
| 23 April 2026 |
Beginner |
6pm to 9pm |
M1-16, Edinburgh College, Milton Road |
| 30 April 2026 |
Intermediate/Advanced |
6pm to 9pm |
M1-16, Edinburgh College, Milton Road |
Please note: these courses are not run by our Organisational Development service.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about these courses before applying, please email Mac McLoughlin at Edinburgh College.