Range of issues considered at Council meeting
The parking management scheme in North Berwick and the potential development of a data centre in Cockenzie were among the issues considered at a recent Council meeting.
Elected members also approved a move to phone-free classrooms and the creation of new specialist provisions in three schools for pupils with complex Additional Support Needs (ASN).
In addition, the meeting on 25 August received an update on the significant financial pressures affecting local governments across Scotland, including our council.
Parking management in North Berwick:
Elected members approved the commissioning of an independent review of the scheme which was introduced in the town on 1 June.
The review will be conducted by expert researchers from the University of Glasgow and University of Strathclyde to provide an evidence-based assessment of the scheme during its first year of operation.
The review will evaluate the impact on parking demand, travel behaviour, economic activity, congestion and road safety. Researchers will draw on a wide range of data to determine what changes have occurred as a result of the implementation of parking charges.
A report setting out their findings and any recommendations is scheduled to be presented to Council in June 2027.
More info: https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/news/2026/independent-review-set-north-berwick-parking-management-scheme
Potential data centre:
An update on progress towards the potential development of a new data centre on part of the former Cockenzie Power Station site was considered at the meeting.
While discussions remain at a very early stage, work is continuing between our council and Sustainable Development Capital LLP (SDCL) to explore the opportunity and assess how the site could support a major investment in the county.
The former power station site has been identified as one of Scotland’s most suitable locations for this type of development due to its existing grid infrastructure, brownfield status and proximity to significant renewable energy resources.
More info: https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/news/2026/councillors-receive-update-potential-data-centre
Mobile phones in schools:
Our council’s classrooms will be phone-free after new guidance was approved.
Mobile phones will not be permitted for children in primaries 1 to 3. Lockable storage boxes in primary 4 to 7 classrooms and secure storage in all secondary classrooms will store phones during lesson times.
The guidance was developed following widespread consultation with parents and carers, pupils and staff, and taking account of Scottish Government’s vision for ‘respectful and responsible use of mobile technology’.
More info: https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/news/2026/east-lothian-schools-go-phone-free
ASN expansion plans:
Elected members agreed to progress projects to improve new ASN provision at Law Primary School in North Berwick along with Stoneyhill Primary and Musselburgh Grammar schools in Musselburgh.
The provisions to accommodate growing number of children and young people with complex ASN will create 122 new schools spaces across 14 classrooms.
Demand for specialist ASN provision in East Lothian rose by 132% from 2020 to 2025.
Members heard that our existing specialist estate at Dunbar, Sanderson’s Wynd, Windygoul primary schools and Knox Academy, Rosehill and Ross High schools are almost at capacity.
More info: https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/news/2026/councillors-approve-school-asn-expansion-plans
Financial update:
The update highlighted the need to manage council budgets carefully and effectively due to financial pressures.
Elected members heard that while demand for key services such as children’s services, social care and support for vulnerable residents continues to rise, our council remains on track to manage its overall budget position through strong financial controls and ongoing efficiency measures.
The report emphasised that most savings agreed for 2026/27 have already been delivered or are actively being progressed.
Scottish Government funding secured during the year is supporting national policy commitments, while council tax income and careful management of staffing budgets are helping to offset some service pressures.
More info: https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/news/2026/financial-update-presented-councillors
Upcoming meetings:
Cabinet – Tuesday, 8 September at 10am
Policy and Performance Review Committee – Thursday, 17 September at 10am
East Lothian Licensing Board – Thursday, 24 September at 10am