Peter Brett Associates has produced a 'masterplan' report detailing how the former Cockenzie Power Station site in East Lothian could be developed in the future.

The consultancy was appointed by the local authority to create a visionary document for the site, setting out potential future land uses for the area. The council was recently selected by Scottish Power as the preferred bidder for the site.

A series of interactive community drop-in sessions were held in Cockenzie, Port Seton and Prestonpans to help gather views for the document, while meetings were also held with local and national stakeholders.

The report sets out a possible vision of a mixed-use site including an employment zone, multi-purpose open space, landscaped areas with paths, an area for a potential energy quarter and an improved harbour setting with further employment space and infrastructure improvements.

However, the council said a number of factors and considerations will need to be taken into account before the report could inform local planning policy. In addition, the document does not represent any agreed council policy or settled outcome for the future of the site, instead serving as a basis for further reflection, discussion and engagement between key stakeholders.


It would also be necessary for the council to carry out technical work, including a Strategic Environmental Assessment on whatever ultimately is agreed upon for the site in planning policy terms.

Depute Council Leader Norman Hampshire said: "I welcome publication of the report produced by Peter Brett Associates. The council has long recognised that the former Cockenzie Power Station site presents a key strategic economic development opportunity for East Lothian.

"While the power station's demolition stirred up a mix of emotions among local people and there are different opinions on future use of the site, most agree that this is a hugely important issue for local residents and an exciting opportunity for East Lothian as a whole. We are therefore determined to secure a positive future in the best interests of local communities and our economy. That's why the council and our partners on the Cockenzie Community Forum brought in external consultants to carry out a wide consultation exercise and prepare this masterplan report.

"I'd like to thank everyone who attended one of the events which were held – the feedback received was invaluable and has helped get to this stage. There remains a huge amount of work to do. For example, we need to understand whether there are any implications for the site as a result of any revisions to national planning policy.

"Crucially, we also need to secure formal purchase of the site, following the recent news that East Lothian Council is ScottishPower's preferred bidder. While these matters are very complex the council is focused on making progress as quickly as possible. In the meantime, local residents and interested stakeholders have a chance to review the report and the council looks forward to gathering their reflections."

To view the report, visit here.