In recent weeks following the Scottish Government’s decision to call-in ICOL’s onshore application for planning permission in principle, the project team has continued to engage with the local community. As well as meeting with the East Lothian Council, the team have also met with both Prestonpans and Port Seton & Cockenzie Community Councils, and local MSPs to discuss how best to work together moving forward to achieve best use of the land at the former Cockenzie Power Station.

ICOL believes there is enough room for multiple developments on the site and has been actively looking at how to reduce the footprint of the proposed transmission works to ensure the adjacent land would be both available and viable for other developments. Feasibility studies regarding the changing size and design of the transmission works’ footprint, which would remain within the red-line boundary, are ongoing and pre-date the call-in and the most recent calls for a further change in location.

If found viable, these potential changes to the footprint would be outlined in detail in the next stage of planning should the project be granted planning permission in principle, during which ICOL would consult further with the local community.

Ian Johnson, ICOL Project Manager, said: “We have met with East Lothian Council and local political stakeholders to express our ongoing commitment and interest in working together moving forward to achieve what is best for the site. We believe there is enough room for multiple developments on the former Cockenzie Power Station site. Following initial feedback from the local community during the consultation phase, we have been actively looking at how to reduce the footprint of the transmission works to ensure adjacent land is available and viable for other plans.

“We look forward to working with East Lothian Council and the local community to ensure development opportunities are maximised for all.”