WORK to stabilise an unrecorded mine shaft on the B1361 in Prestonpans west of the junction with Prestongrange Road will begin next week.

The work includes stabilising the mine shaft which was found under the road and adjacent footpath in August.

The existing temporary traffic lights will remain in place throughout the works to avoid closure of the whole road.

Work is scheduled to take six weeks.

Michael Owens, from the Coal Authority’s public safety and subsidence team, said: “This is an unrecorded coal mine shaft, meaning we hold no records of the depth, location or any specific information regarding the previous treatment method.

“The mine shaft is located under a road which has live services beneath, including a medium pressure gas main that will need to be isolated and supported during works. This, coupled with the close proximity to a category B listed wall and protected trees, mean we’ve had to co-ordinate efforts alongside various stakeholders.

“The permanent safety solution is to excavate and cast a reinforced concrete cap over the position of the suspected unrecorded, rectangular coal mine shaft.

“The reinforced concrete cap will be constructed to withstand all traffic, with East Lothian Council responsible for overseeing the reinstatement of the road.”

Alan Stubbs, council service manager for roads, said: “This has been a challenging situation; however, our priority is to ensure the safety of all road users. We continue to work with the Coal Authority.”