SCDC has been appointed to lead a community consultation that will shape Inch Cape's post-construction legacy fund, expected to go live in 2027, with residents of Port Seton, Cockenzie and Prestonpans at the heart of the process.

The consultation launched at an event at Port Seton Community Centre, where around 30 people from community councils, charities, community organisations and East Lothian Council took part in a community mapping exercise and heard more about the project and its engagement plans.

SCDC's Head of Programme Dawn Brown said: "We are delighted to support Inch Cape in working with the communities nearest the project's onshore substation and recognise the wealth of local knowledge that exists across the area." Brown added: "Our role is to create welcoming and meaningful opportunities for people to share their views and shape the fund distribution."

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A dedicated SCDC webpage outlining the consultation phases and how to get involved is now live at https://www.scdc.org.uk/inch-cape. It includes a questionnaire for residents, community groups and other stakeholders to help build a broad picture of local views and identify key themes and priorities. SCDC will then run focus groups and further conversations with communities and wider stakeholders.

At the launch, Inch Cape's Communications & Stakeholder Manager Sue Vincent provided a project update and confirmed the Inch Cape Construction Fund will be extended into 2027. Foundation Scotland, which manages the fund, was represented by Grants Officer Rachael Walker and Head of Communities & Impact Rachael Searle, who discussed their work with Inch Cape and across East Lothian and Scotland.

Siemens Energy's Social Value Manager Sarah Howard also presented on the company's role in the project and her community involvement over the past three years. Siemens Energy is nearing completion of its work at the Cockenzie site, having led construction of the onshore substation since early 2023.

People who wish to contribute to the consultation can use the SCDC link and share it with others who may want to take part. The aim is to ensure the fund's outcomes are grounded in local knowledge and shaped by local people.