WORK is under way at the site of a former care home in Tranent which will allow new housing to be built.

East Lothian Council demolished Fa’side Lodge five years ago as part of a plan to build new council housing on the land.

However, the site sits over coal deposits known locally as the Great Seam.

A spokesperson for East Lothian Council said: “Ground consolidation works are currently happening at the former Fa’side Lodge site in Tranent.

“This process of ‘grouting’ happens before development commences in any area where there were previous mine workings.”

Fa’side Lodge closed as a care home in October 2014 after the new Crookston Care Home opened in the town.

It was demolished after the removal of asbestos and the council then bought the neighbouring Church of Christ meeting hall, which was also demolished and increased the site.

The plans for 28 housing units include a mix of wheelchair accessible bungalows and flats.

The Great Seam refers to coal deposits under Tranent which were said to be at least seven feet thick.

Mining work in the town dates back to the 13th century and carried on until the deposit was depleted in the early 20th century.