The next stage in the ambitious transformation of Prestongrange Colliery and Brickworks into a heritage park has commenced, with Clark Contracts now on site to redevelop the former Pithead Bath House. This latest phase of work began earlier this month and is expected to continue until early 2026. The project has been carefully planned to avoid disrupting the operations of Prestongrange Museum or access to the wider park.

The construction is receiving significant support, with £1.2 million provided through the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund. The scope of work includes essential repairs to the building's structure and roof. Crucially, the former Medical Centre within the Pithead Baths will be converted into a new volunteer base and activity room. This addition aims to foster broader community use of the park and help build future volunteer capacity for the site.

The primary objectives for this phase are to secure the fabric of the historic Pithead Bath House building, continue the development of an accessible, carbon-neutral community hub and education space, and encourage ongoing dialogue to identify future uses for the building. These future uses will complement the broader heritage park and contribute to the long-term sustainability and viability of this important East Lothian attraction.


Councillor Colin McGinn, Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. "Heritage-led regeneration at Prestongrange, and across the wider Preston Seton Gosford area, has enhanced the area for local communities, will increase visitor numbers to the area, and will provide a boost for the local economy, including employment," he stated. "This area has a rich industrial history and it’s fantastic to see this next phase of development at this fascinating site, which is well-loved and well-used by local people and visitors alike."

The redevelopment works at Prestongrange are made possible by the funding from the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund.

Michael Scanlan, Director at Clark Contracts, commented: "We are delighted to be delivering the refurbishment of the Pithead Bath House and to be a part of the important regeneration plan for the area. These works will greatly improve the facility for both the community and visitors and we look forward to working closely with East Lothian Council and the design team to deliver these works."

The Prestongrange Pithead Bath House, constructed in 1952 at a cost of £63,578, was the 100th facility of its kind created by the National Coal Board (NCB) in Scotland and was formally opened on 12 September 1952. Recent years have seen other investments in Prestongrange Heritage Park as part of its ongoing regeneration, including the construction of a new Engine Shed to house locomotive and rolling stock collections, and the installation of new fencing around industrial artefacts to ensure public safety and manage exhibit condition.