DOZENS of ideas from the community for the future of the former Cockenzie Power Station site were gathered in an exhibition in Prestonpans this week, as it was revealed East Lothian Council had opened talks with the Coastal Regeneration Alliance community group.

A two-night exhibition in Prestongrange Bowling Club invited people to write their ideas for the coastline on post-it notes which will then be brought together for discussion.

A dozen tables were covered with ideas, which ranged from a hovercraft terminal to a Battle of Prestonpans Museum to a giant sculpture like the Falkirk Kelpies.

Some advocated supporting the proposed new town at Blindwells, with the surrounding area protected as green belt land, while others called for a marina and cafes.

Meanwhile, members of the Alliance steering group met with council officials to set out the community opposition to a proposed marine energy park at the site and beyond.

The proposals stretch from the power station inland as far as Blindwells. They propose using the new industrial park to repair and build wind turbines for offshore energy farms.

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “The council had a useful meeting with representatives of the Coastal Regeneration Alliance as part of a wider dialogue with stakeholders regarding potential future developments in the Cockenzie Power Station area.”