TOWN halls and libraries are among a list of council-owned buildings which will remain ‘mothballed’ for the foreseeable future.

East Lothian Council has said that a number of buildings which were taken out of public use during lockdown will remain closed because of enhanced Covid-19 cleaning and safety standards.

Councillor Willie Innes, council leader, said that while a relaxation of some guidelines was allowing a resumption of some public gatherings indoors, the local authority had taken the decision to keep doors closed to community buildings which had been used for years for community group meetings.

He highlighted that many of the buildings were “much-loved older buildings which do not lend themselves easily to safe operation in a ‘Covid’ world, with meeting spaces/rooms too small to contain 2m physical distancing layouts”. “Unfortunately, community buildings currently ‘mothballed’ will remain so for the foreseeable future,” he added.

Community groups which would use the halls have been asked to continue to hold their meetings virtually, although the council confirmed that some had chosen to meet in alternative venues.

A council spokesperson said: “By doing business virtually, community groups are making a huge contribution to supporting our county-wide business critical activity, and supporting the revitalisation of our community life and economy by reducing the risks of creating unnecessary coronavirus ‘bridges’ between households and communities.”

Council buildings remaining closed are: East Linton Chambers; Prestonkirk Library, East Linton; Gullane Public Library; Haddington Town House; Innerwick Field Study (Outdoor) Centre; Macmerry Village Hall; Musselburgh Town Hall; Ormiston Library; Trevelyan Hall, Pencaitland; Aldhammer House, Prestonpans; Prestonpans Community and Resource Centre; Prestonpans Library; Prestonpans Town Hall; and Tranent Town Hall.