This latest phase will focus on the repair and redevelopment of the former Pithead Bath House building. Work is expected to last until early 2026 but will not affect the operation of the Prestongrange Museum or access to the wider park.

The construction is being supported with £1.2 million through the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund and will involve repairs to the structure and roof of the building and the creation of a volunteer base and activity room within the former Medical Centre of the Pithead Baths building, to encourage wider community use of the park and help build future volunteer capacity.

The aim for this phase of the project is to secure the fabric of the former Pithead Bath House building, continue the delivery of an accessible, carbon neutral community hub and education space, and encourage further dialogue to identify future uses of the building that will complement the wider heritage park and contribute to the long-term sustainability and viability of this important attraction.

Councillor Colin McGinn, cabinet spokesperson for Community Wellbeing, said: “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. 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 have been made possible by funding from the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund.

Clark Contracts director Michael Scanlan added: “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.”

Built in 1952, the Prestongrange Pithead Bath House was the 100th facility created by the National Coal Board (NCB) in Scotland. It was constructed for a cost of £63,578, and formally opened on 12th September 1952.

Prestongrange Heritage Park has seen recent investment as part of a planned, incremental regeneration of this important heritage asset including the construction of the new Engine Shed to house the collection of locomotives and rolling stock and the installation of new fencing around many of the industrial artefacts to ensure public safety and manage the condition of the exhibits.