CAMPAIGNERS battling for a community right to buy land surrounding the former Cockenzie Power Station have been dealt a blow after a sheriff threw out their appeal.

The Coastal Regeneration Alliance (CRA) took the Scottish Government to court over its decision to refuse them the right to buy the Greenhills and Battle of Prestonpans site, currently owned by ScottishPower.

They claimed the Scottish Government decision was flawed and called on Edinburgh Sheriff Court to back their case.

However the sheriff court has backed Scottish Minister saying they acted within the extent of the legislation they had and were entitled to say no.

Today the CRA warned it would not give up the fight, despite the decision.

A spokesperson said: "We have been attempting to acquire this land in order to safeguard important and historic green spaces for generations to come.

"We are then, very disappointed by Sheriff’s decision to refuse our Community Right to Buy appeal.

The Community Land Buy Out is the result of a clear desire from community consultation that these areas must be preserved and enhanced for future generations, allowing communities and employment to sit harmoniously as has been the case for over 50 years, has been the CRA’s aim.

"It shows that valuing the environment, history and culture with development of jobs and industry can be achieved balance and way forward.

"The CRA has consulted our supporters post the Sheriff’s decision, and the overwhelming response has been that we need to continue the fight for what we believe in.

"It is the communities surrounding the site who will be most affected by the future of our local land. Our Greenhills are our recreation space. Our battlesite is where we want to honour the past and embrace the future. Our communities are not going anywhere - CRA is still right here."