The first round of funding from the Inch Cape Construction Fund for 2026 has been awarded to five community groups across Cockenzie, Port Seton, and Prestonpans.

A combined total of nearly £9,000 has been allocated to projects that primarily focus on raising awareness of the region's rich local heritage.

In addition to celebrating history, the grants support a variety of programmes designed to encourage outdoor activity and improve physical fitness within the community.

The successful organisations and their funded initiatives include:

• Preston Lodge Women's Hockey Club: Awarded £1,922 to train a club member as a coach, supporting the development of young players and increasing local participation in the sport.

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• Friends of Preston Tower: Received £2,000 to produce an educational activity booklet and fund primary school tours, raising awareness and community support for the 15th-century historic site.

• Heritage Connections: Provided with £1,228.75 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Prestonpans Murals Trail through the creation of a new mural that promotes local heritage.

• Battle of Prestonpans 1745 Heritage Trust: Awarded £2,000 to cover the costs of bus transport, allowing students from five local primary schools to visit the Battle of Prestonpans Heritage Museum and Prestongrange.

• Beyond Boundaries East Lothian (BBEL): Received £1,740 for water activity safety equipment, including buoyancy aids and helmets, to facilitate inclusive weekly sessions at Prestonpans beach for children of all abilities.

Managed by Foundation Scotland, the Inch Cape Construction Fund has a total of £45,000 available for distribution throughout 2026. The fund is linked to the construction of the onshore substation for the Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm at the former Cockenzie Power Station site.

Applications remain open year-round, with grants awarded approximately every three months. The fund welcomes bids from groups whose activities aim to reduce isolation, improve mental or physical health, increase access to education and employment, enhance the local environment, or tackle food and fuel poverty.