Brunton Hall update
Colleagues will be aware that significant parts of the Brunton Hall are closed due to the presence of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) which is unaffordable to repair.
It was agreed earlier this year that the building would be closed and mothballed. A number of teams have since relocated while plans are being put in place for those remaining at the Brunton Hall to move to alternative accommodation in the coming months.
Which teams have already relocated?
As noted in last month's issue of Inform, the Housing Options and Mental Health teams as well as the East Lothian and Midlothian Public Protection Office, all previously based in the Brunton Hall, have relocated to John Muir House, Haddington. The Arts Service has moved their office base to John Muir House.
Brunton Theatre Trust provides opportunities for artists and audiences to take part in and engage with arts and creativity across the whole of East Lothian. The Trust has relocated its main base to the Corn Exchange in Haddington and is committed to continuing to provide high quality cultural experiences in Musselburgh with a programme of events primarily at Northesk Church and Loretto Theatre. The Brunton staff team remain focused on delivering a fantastic range of concerts, comedy, theatre, dance, talks and film for everyone to enjoy in these alternative locations in Musselburgh and Haddington.
Which teams are still to relocate?
Justice Social Work, Musselburgh Community Housing and Musselburgh Customer Services continue to operate from the Brunton Hall at present, with Customer Services open to the public and staff still available to provide assistance, guidance, and information as required. They are expected to remain at the Brunton Hall until after the end of 2025.
When will these teams move and to where?
Musselburgh Community Housing and Musselburgh Customer Services will relocate to the former Citizens Advice Bureau at 141 High Street once the necessary work has been carried out at this building to get it ready for staff. It is expected to open in early 2026.
Justice Social Work Team is expected to move to the Fisherrow Community Centre after some works have been carried out to the building. This is also expected to be in early 2026.
What then happens to the Brunton Hall?
The building will be closed and mothballed. As fixing the RAAC issues is considered unaffordable, the preferred option is to demolish the building following appropriate consultation.
Work is taking place to ensure future accommodation for the arts in Musselburgh and explore opportunities to finance a replacement of the Brunton Hall. We are keen to progress this as quickly as possible to find an affordable solution for alternative accommodation to maintain all the associated cultural, economic and social benefits that has been delivered at the Brunton Hall over many years.
We remain ambitious for what a newly-provided facility could be that would replace this building – a building that reflects and enhances the Brunton Hall’s significant legacy and a space that is fit for the future with community, art, and culture at its heart.