Tranent High Street is “not dead”, the town’s community council chair has stressed.

A discussion on the future of Tranent High Street took place at the August meeting of Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council, with members and ward councillors divided on the future of the town centre.

Community council member Robert McNeill expressed concerns that the number of businesses recently leaving High Street and the town meant the area was “dead” or “seriously struggling”.

Mike Falconer, chair of the group, was quick to defend the area, adding: “I think we have to be careful how we word this.

“High Street is not dead. It is in need of work and support and that is why we are having this discussion.

“I think when we start writing things off, that is when we have issues.”

Mr Falconer’s feelings were backed by East Lothian councillor Lee-Anne Menzies, ward councillor for Tranent, Wallyford and Macmerry.

Ms Menzies said: “I think it is vital that we are selling Tranent in a positive light.

“We need to be talking up the town, talking up the High Street – that is how we bring business and people here.”

Discussions were held on how the community council could help promote the town and High Street.

Mr Falconer praised new business Allan’s Bakery, which opened on High Street at the former Nettie’s takeaway earlier this month.

The community council chair said he would meet with the owner of any new business that came to the town.

He said: “I am going to make a conscious effort to introduce myself to any businesses who come to the High Street or the town and shake their hand and thank them for coming to the town.

“I want them to know who we are and that we are grateful for them being here.”

Mr Falconer said continuing to promote Tranent as a town for businesses was a top priority of the community council.