A SUGGESTION that hundreds of thousands of pounds were “wasted” on renovating a building which has not been open for more than three years has been denied.

Haddington Town House has not been open to the public since the Covid-19 pandemic struck in March 2020; there is still no date for when it could be used again.

The town centre building was not only used by East Lothian Council for meetings but also by a wide range of community groups for events ranging from fashion shows to choir practice.

The council spent £600,000 on repairs and refurbishments.

Falko Burkert, a member of Haddington and District Community Council, questioned whether the funding had been “wasted”, as the building was still closed.

The discussion came after the community council was previously contacted by a member of the public who shared a similar view.

Councillor Shamin Akhtar, who represents the town on East Lothian Council, denied that the money was wasted during the group’s meeting last week.

She said: “The money was there to restore it. We did not know where we would be now.

“It is an asset to Haddington town centre.”

Work on the building, which was previously used as a court and jail, included repointing, stonework and electrical repairs.

A “hybrid” system is also being installed in the building’s council chamber on the ground floor.

This technology will allow people to join council meetings “in person” but also remotely.

The equipment needs to remain in place permanently – making the chamber unsuitable for events other than meetings.

Earlier this year, East Lothian Council announced council meetings would return to the building, although committees have continued to meet virtually since the announcement.

A council spokeswoman said: “The work carried out was essential to retain the viability of the Town House as a public asset.

“As previously advised in April, during the current challenging financial environment, the council will continue to focus on core frontline services and is unable to open the venue for greater community use but local groups will be advised of alternative venues.”