Council removes 1,750 double-decker buses worth of earth from former coal site

Nearly 2,000 double-decker worth of earth was removed from a former coal site as work began preparing for its future regrowth.

East Lothian Council is about to start the second phase of clearing the site, which is linked to the former Cockenzie Power Station, with demolition of a former rail bridge, concrete wall and coal conveyor structures.

It said the concrete structures on the site had recently become visible from the road after they removed giant bunds made up with 175,00 cubic metres of earth – equal to 1,750 double-decker buses – which was transferred to the former power station site itself to fill in a giant void on the land.

Residents living next to the coal store at Cockenzie and Port Seton have been warned they will face noise as the work to remove the remaining buildings on the site goes on for an estimated 20 weeks.

However, the council said restrictions were in place to keep the use of demolition machinery between 8am and 6pm during the week, with no planned weekend work.

Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council spokesperson for economic development, said: “It is a real achievement that this huge project to prepare the site for future employment use is running on schedule and we appreciate the understanding and patience of the local community.

“We have been keeping the neighbouring community councils informed every step of the way and Balfour Beatty has issued regular newsletters to those living alongside the site, as well as keeping a wonderful photographic record as the work progresses.

“It’s been really interesting to see these structures emerge, that have been hidden from view for a number of years, revealing a huge part of East Lothian’s industrial history.”

East Lothian Council bought the former power station and adjoining coal store land from ScottishPower in 2018.