Tom Arthur, the Minister for Employment and Investment, has recently visited Prestongrange Heritage Park to learn about the exciting future developments planned for the site.

During his visit, Mr Arthur toured the Engine Shed, a purpose-built facility housing a significant collection of steam and diesel locomotives and rolling stock. The construction of the Engine Shed and the ongoing regeneration of the Park have been made possible through grants from the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund. The Engine Shed, which opened in April 2024, has quickly become a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. A dedicated team of volunteers plays a crucial role in preserving and conserving the collection, which is available for public viewing during museum opening hours.

Councillor John McMillan, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism at East Lothian Council, along with representatives from the Council's Community and Infrastructure teams, provided Mr Arthur with a comprehensive tour of the site. Councillor McMillan commented: “It was great to welcome Mr Arthur to Prestongrange, which is a unique and nationally important site in terms of heritage and tourism. We enjoyed a tour of the new Engine Shed and were able to discuss how heritage-led regeneration on the site and across the Preston Seton Gosford area has enhanced the area for local communities, will increase visitor numbers to the area and can provide a boost for the local economy, including employment.”

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Employment and Investment Minister Tom Arthur highlighted the Scottish Government's continued support: “We are providing Prestongrange Heritage Park with £1.2 million to develop a community hub with space for businesses to grow. To help communities prosper, the Scottish Government is investing £62.15 million in regeneration projects in 2025-26. This will help to revitalise green spaces, town centres and derelict sites to benefit people across Scotland.”

The opening of the Engine Shed marked a significant milestone in the ambitious regeneration project at Prestongrange. The next phase will focus on the renovation of the Bath House, with work expected to commence later this year. The overarching vision for the project is to create a new, accessible, and carbon-neutral community hub. This will include commercial space, indoor community education facilities primarily within the derelict pit-head baths, and outdoor areas within the surrounding parkland.

The redeveloped site will feature a multi-purpose activity room, accommodation for local groups, storage areas, and accessible toilets and showers. It aims to provide development space to support new revenue generation, education, and employment opportunities, while also improving access to a nationally important landscape, green network, and heritage site.

Prestongrange Museum reopened for the 2025 season on 2 April and is currently open from 11:00 to 14:30, Wednesday to Sunday. Visitors can view the locomotives and rolling stock as part of a guided tour of the site.