A FRESH appeal for help raising funds for the new Fraser Centre has been launched, after the ambitious plans took a major step forward this week.

Plans to refurbish the centre to create a community hub which makes the most of the space have been given the green light by East Lothian Council.

However, The Fraser Centre Community Trust says the decision means a major drive in fundraising will be needed.

Speaking after the plans were approved, David Orr, development manager, said: “We have a critical period of fundraising coming up now to raise the funds before we can begin any work, with the project costing an estimated £2.384million.

“Anyone who wants to get involved can visit www.friendsofthefrasercentre.com and find out how they can help or what fundraising initiatives we have going on that they can get involved with.

“This is a massive step forward for the capital project and an exciting time for the trust and the community.

“The project will embrace the history of the old building by continuing to screen a community cinema programme; however, the new facility will offer much more to the community, with a variety of social, health, educational and business opportunities in the new hub.”

The plans aim to revitalise the centre, based in the former Winton Cinema building in Tranent town centre.

They include a new L-shaped layout, which would include a two-door lobby entrance into a reception area, with a cafe opening onto gardens, two cinemas, alongside lettable office space.

The main cinema would be two storeys high, while the second, smaller screening room would also have a mobile stage and dressing-room area off it to allow for theatre performances.

Jonny Russell, chairman of the community trust, said: “We are delighted that planning has been granted, which takes us closer to achieving our vision for the centre.

On behalf of all at the trust I would like to thank our design team NORR for working with us to reach this stage and creating an exciting vision of the future for The Fraser Centre and Tranent”.

To get involved and find out more about the project and how to help fundraise, go to friendsofthefrasercentre.com or email david@thefrasercentre.com