A NEW proposed path linking residents in Hallhill to the second platform at Dunbar Railway Station would be “much more supported” by people living nearby.

Calls for improved access to the platform have been made since it was opened in 2019.

East Lothian Council has now revealed revised plans, which would see a path to the north of Retreat Crescent created.

It comes nearly 12 months after the local authority gave the green light to previous plans, only to scrap them just weeks later, with council officials labelling the decision to withdraw the proposals a technical matter.

READ MORE: Plans for path to access second platform at Dunbar Railway Station

Currently, people living in the Hallhill area of the town, south of the East Coast Main Line, have to travel round to the existing northern platform before crossing a footbridge back to the southern platform.

The original plans included a bike shelter beside the path but fears were raised that it would be used for underage drinking.

The bike shelter has been removed from the new plans, with an intention for it to be instead included on neighbouring Network Rail ground.

Ward councillor Norman Hampshire, who lives near the proposed new path, felt that the amended proposals would win favour with more people in the area.

He said: “I know there were some concerns from the residents who live close to the new access, mainly on the potential for the delivery of a cycle park just outside it.

“That has now been removed from the proposal and the bicycle parking will be within the station ground, which will be covered by Network Rail’s own CCTV.

“I think the proposal now will be much more supported by people who live close by.”

READ MORE: Underage drinking fears at planned path beside town's railway station

Residents had brought their concerns about underage drinking in the shelter to a previous meeting of the town’s community council.

One woman said: “Already, we have got the children’s playground there, which is a focus for anti-social behaviour at night. An extra shelter for underage drinking, which a bike shelter will become, does not sound a good idea.”

Pippa Swan, chairwoman of the community council, questioned what consultation there had been with the neighbouring streets before the application was submitted.

She said: “There have been conversations about linking the town ever since the big development started. Any links that we can make to improve connectivity are to be welcomed.”

Mrs Swan was also keen to ensure the proposed bike shelter went ahead and was of a suitable size to meet demand.

She added: “If we are going to be serious about people moving freely from the southern side, there has to be enough of a facility to keep up with demand.”

East Lothian Council acknowledged there were also concerns that people would park cars on neighbouring streets before walking to the new platform.

Mr Hampshire said that different methods could be used to try to stop this.

In Berwick-upon-Tweed, signs inform people they cannot park on streets neighbouring the station unless they have a permit.