Elected members considered the future of the Brunton Hall in Musselburgh at today's meeting of East Lothian Council.
Significant parts of the building have been out of use for some time, due to the presence of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete), which has presented huge problems. The identification of RAAC in buildings has resulted in challenges on a national scale.
RAAC is a lightweight form of precast concrete, frequently used in public sector buildings from the mid-1960s to at least the mid-1980s. Concerns have been raised about safety following roof collapse of buildings elsewhere.
Council officers have worked with structural engineering consultants to assess the condition of the RAAC within the Brunton Hall, the scale of which has proven to be challenging. There is a risk that the RAAC in the Brunton Hall could deteriorate further, while there are also a number of other concerns including water ingress and the poor working environment in the building.
Council decision
After consideration of a report presented to the Council meeting, elected members approved the closure and mothballing of the Brunton Hall, with temporary alternative arrangements for service delivery to be put in place in the coming months.
The report highlighted that to permanently address RAAC issues at the Brunton Hall is unaffordable and that the preferred option is to demolish the building. However, no formal decision on demolition has been made at this time, with members agreeing that a statutory consultation will be undertaken, as the building is a common good asset.
Councillors also agreed that a place-based development project to prepare options for future service delivery, ensuring accommodation of the arts in Musselburgh, would be undertaken. The results of this, and the consultation exercise, are to be reported back to a future Council meeting for a decision to be taken.
The council will also write to the UK and Scottish Governments to highlight the importance of the matter and ask for support.
We know that this is very sad and disappointing news for the community, our employees and the many people from far and wide who have enjoyed attending events and performances at the Brunton Hall for many years.
While extensive consideration to repair options has been given it is clear that, in an extremely difficult financial environment, it is unaffordable and impractical for these to be rectified on a permanent basis. As well as being extremely expensive, additional propping would mean that a number of rooms would be permanently unusable. We must prioritise everyone’s health and safety – staff as well as visitors and building users more generally.
Alternative locations
It is expected to take up to six months for services currently based in the Brunton Hall to be relocated.
The former Citizens Advice Bureau at 141 High Street, Musselburgh, will be the main council location locally for face-to-face contact. This includes Customer Services and the Musselburgh Community Housing Team, with bookable space for other services.
Other services will be located within John Muir House, Haddington, or other suitable accommodation.
Arrangements for all services impacted by the mothballing process have an in principle solution agreed, however, further consideration will occur to ensure that the solutions identified align with service requirements and represent value for money. Final operational arrangements are therefore to be confirmed.
Officers will be in touch with any external organisation that currently holds a leased space within the Brunton Hall.
Future options
We share everyone’s disappointment regarding the situation with the Brunton Hall. In the sad event of the building being demolished, we are committed to exploring to find new ways of meeting accommodation requirements well into the future.
A place-based project, consistent with the council’s asset strategy and management plan, is to be undertaken to determine the most appropriate, sustainable and affordable way forward.
This could include potential colocation with Community Planning Partners, developing a business case for replacement of the theatre and other performance spaces, seeking alternative locations in Musselburgh.
We are determined to work together with the community and local organisations to identify solutions and will keep you updated and informed in the weeks and months ahead.
The full report considered at today's meeting, as well as one of two amendments which were approved, are available to view here (item 03).