Report outlines vision of potential employment zone and energy quarter at Cockenzie Power Station site

A potential vision of a mixed-use development of the former Cockenzie Power Station site including an employment zone, an area for a potential energy quarter and an improved harbour setting has been revealed in a new report.Produced by consultants Peter Brett Associates following its appointment by East Lothian Council, the Cockenzie Masterplan Report sets out the findings from the master planning process for the site.The document is being made available following Scottish Power’s recent announcement that East Lothian Council is preferred bidder to purchase the site.The document does not represent any agreed council policy or settled outcome for the future of the site. Instead it serves as a basis for further reflection, discussion and engagement between key stakeholders.The document acknowledges that the former power station is a key site for local communities and the wider East Lothian economy. 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.There are a number of factors and considerations which would need to be taken into account before a masterplan report could inform local planning policy. For example, a formal statutory process – including prescribed periods of consultation – would be necessary.The council is keen to understand the direction of future national planning policy set by Scottish Ministers, with the National Planning Framework due for review in 2019. 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.In the meantime, the masterplan report will serve as a basis for further reflection, discussion and engagement between the council and key stakeholders.