May 16 2023

East Lothian Council has secured funding from the Scottish Government for a second phase of public realm improvements to the Civic Square and War Memorial on Prestonpans High Street to complement initial works.

Following improvement works to the street level the latest area of focus is the lower, seaward area, again overseen by Rankin Fraser Landscape Architects as part of their competition-winning proposals. A beachfront civic space overlooking the Firth of Forth is planned below the upper square, accessible by a new ramp and steps, its outward nature contrasting with the inward-looking memorial.

Cabinet member for community wellbeing, cllr Colin McGinn, commented: “The improvement works to Civic Square continues the heritage-led regenerative investment in the local area which includes the physical repairs to Preston Tower and Doocot, due for completion in September 2023, construction of the new Engine Shed and planned creation of a volunteer base and regeneration of the former Bath House at Prestongrange, and the development of coordinated heritage interpretation linking various key sites to encourage the local community and visitors from further afield to engage with the area’s rich history and heritage.”

Completion is expected by November 2023. A natural heritage strip will embed interpretation panels New openings afford glimpses of the war memorial from low level  

3 Comments

#1 Posted by Laura Givan on 18 May 2023 at 22:17 PM

A better walk way all the way along would be fantastic as it’s quite dangerous ugly and slippy for such a beautiful view. However this square will be lovely.

#2 Posted by D J Rodgers on 19 May 2023 at 15:13 PM

I hope there will be wheelchair access to this new area, can you clarify please.

#3 Posted by John Glenday on 19 May 2023 at 15:24 PM

@2 Access improvements include the removal of stairs and the installation of a ramp to provide step-free access between the High Street and the John Muir Way below.

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