A BID has been launched to provide food and drink in a village described as “a coffee break desert”.

Plans have been drawn up to serve hot food and drink to walkers, tradesmen and people working in Gullane.

The details have now been lodged with East Lothian Council’s planning department, which is being asked to consider the proposals for the premises formerly known as The Store Room and Gannets, on the village’s Main Street.

A supporting document with the application from Edinburgh-based Harbour Realty notes the premises were used as a food retail business.

It continues: “I simply wish to continue this and in doing so to enhance the visitor and residential experience of one of East Lothian’s key destinations, to create employment and to provide an outlet for local produce.

“The shop has long provided the local and broader East Lothian community with soup, hot rolls, cold sandwiches and home baking, all of which was prepared on site.

“Crisps, cold drinks, teas and coffees were also available for customers to take away.

“I would like to run a business where local bakers from the community can come into the shop kitchen and bake – providing employment, experience, trade opportunity and support to the community.”

'Almost impossible'

Gullane is described as having “forever been a walking (and increasingly cycling) destination”.

The supporting statement continues: “However, it is almost impossible to find a hot refreshment before 10am in the village.

“Mondays and Tuesdays find the local offerings further reduced.

“I wish to appeal to the dog walker who wants to grab a coffee and head to the beach, to the numerous tradesmen who find Gullane a coffee break ‘desert’, and the doctors’ surgery who previously used Gannets for their lunch order at least once a week.”

The council is due to make a decision on the certificate of lawfulness by the end of May.