Wednesday October 28th 2026
Field on edge of Dunbar proposed as site for theSpace leisure hub pic courtesy ELC planning portal
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Marie Sharp
Plans for a £15million leisure hub inspired by local youths have been recommended for refusal despite receiving more than 200 letters of support.
TheSpace project for Dunbar includes climbing walls, an auditorium, shuffleboard and cafe area, learning spaces and an apprentice academy as part of its multi-generational facility.
However East Lothian planners say the plans would lead to an unacceptable loss of prime agricultural land as it would be built on over two hectares of land on the outskirts of the town.
Applicants theSpace Scotland CIC say the vision for the Dunbar site is to create a dynamic, multi-purpose facility that grows from community action and thrives as a model of social enterprise.
Their design statement says: “Inspired by the legacy of theSpace North Berwick (2011–2015), this new space will embody the principle of being powered by youth, for the whole community.
“Designed as an inclusive and empowering hub for sport, leisure and entertainment, theSpace Dunbar will offer a wide range of high-quality facilities, activities, events, and clubs.
“Its development will be driven by a deep commitment to social purpose, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability, making it a living example of community wealth building in action.
“Recognising that young people are not a separate group but a vital part of community life, theSpace Dunbar will actively promote the idea of ‘Youth in Community’—an ethos that supports integration, collaboration, and mutual respect across generations.”
A report due to go the the council’s planning committee next week says 206 representations were received on the application with 204 supporting it.
However they said both West Barns and Dunbar Community Councils had raised concerns about the location while acknowledging the need for the facility.
Recommending the application for refusal officers said as well as the loss of prime agricultural land the centre would be a “significant traffic generating use located in the countryside which would not be capable of being conveniently and safely accessed on foot, by cycle or by public transport and would increase reliance on the private car.”
Tweet Share on Facebook
