RESIDENTS are being urged to share their experiences of transport problems across East Lothian as part of a consultation over future investment in the county.

East Lothian Council has launched a survey of issues surrounding travel in the county, looking mainly at the A1 and East Coast Main Line, where the majority of journeys are made.

The council has brought in consultants Peter Brett Associates to gather evidence to support any changes to “maximise the integration of sustainable transport options in the area”.

They have been asked to focus on the best ways to make the most of land use and transport ahead of future development in the county, such as the new town at Blindwells and at the former Cockenzie Power Station site.

The consultation will initially focus on the problems people have faced and ask residents what they want to see improved when it comes to travelling in the county.

The consultation, which is open on the council’s online consultation hub until next Friday (May 10), is, the council said, looking to “capture the opinions and aspirations of local people”.

“Essentially we would like to understand the transport problems faced by communities and gather views on how the transport network could be improved to provide improved access to employment and services,” said a spokesperson.

The consultation asks residents to take part in a survey quizzing them about their modes of transport and views on rail and bus travel.

ScotRail has come under repeated pressure from East Lothian politicians and campaign groups to improve its services in the county, where the rush-hour service has been dubbed the “sardine express” due to overcrowding.