Work on the development of a heritage park at the former Prestongrange Colliery and Brickworks has received a major boost thanks to the donation of materials and expertise from Network Rail.

The site, located between Prestonpans and Musselburgh, has been gifted redundant materials and expertise by Network Rail through agents Summers-Inman.

Michael Pollock, director at Summers-Inman, said: “We approached the development manager at Network Rail Alliance via a contact from a previous project and, when they heard about our work at Prestongrange, they were keen to provide some support.

“The gifting of redundant materials and the advice they have provided thus far has been invaluable in planning and completing this element of the project and we are very grateful to all those at Network Rail who have been involved.”

Later this year, Network Rail will also be providing assistance of about 15-20 staff for two days, along with all tools and heavy plant, to lay the tracks that are stored at Prestongrange.

Councillor Colin McGinn, cabinet spokesperson for community wellbeing, said: “Network Rail’s support of materials and expertise has been greatly appreciated and welcomed.

“It’s very fitting that the knowledge and expertise of the teams who own, repair and develop the UK’s current railway infrastructure can support the ambitions of this heritage park acknowledging the importance of rail in our industrial past.

“I also understand that Network Rail’s support will continue into the future as Prestongrange develops further, with possible extensions of tracks showcasing some of the engines.”