NINE units catering for small and new-start businesses could be created on the outskirts of Haddington.

Industrial units similar to those on Prestonpans’ Mid Road would be built on land to the west of Arthurs Way, on the town’s western edge.

A planning application showing three different styles of units has been submitted to East Lothian Council’s planning department.

Councillor Tom Trotter, who represents Haddington on the council, welcomed the proposed units.

Mr Trotter is not part of the council’s planning committee, which could decide the fate of the proposals, so was able to comment on the plans.

He said: “One of the things we are good at in East Lothian is building a lot of houses but the people that are coming here are travelling into Edinburgh or further afield for work.

“It is right that we look at small, medium and even large businesses.”

The strip of land would form part of a larger business site on Haddington’s western edge.

Starbucks has already been given the green light for a cafe and drive-thru to the south, while Gateside Retail Park will be built to the west.

The retail park, which was given the go-ahead before Christmas, is expected to host The Food Warehouse, Aldi, Home Bargains and Costa.

A petrol station with retail unit has also been approved.

Paul Darling, from Haddington’s community council, felt there was a need for small business units in the town.

He highlighted that there had been discussions previously regarding the possibility of small units in that area and the community council had backed the plans.

He said: “We knew a few local businesses were looking for industrial units to move into but there was nothing.

“There were units on Hospital Road but they were all snapped up as soon as they became available.”

A spokeswoman for East Lothian Council confirmed the local authority was seeking approval for the plans.

She said: “We are developing small commercial work units on land that was allocated in the masterplan of the neighbouring Persimmon housing.

“The units will be similar in style and size to the ones delivered in Mid Road, Prestonpans, and will be leased out to small or new-start businesses.

“The Prestonpans units have proven very popular and we believe there will be similar demand in Haddington.

“With plans lodged for approval, we hope to follow with a building warrant in February and seek tenders in early March.

“Our hope will be to start on-site in May.”