The deadline for comments on proposed boundary changes which would see Tranent, Elphinstone, Wallyford and Whitecraig removed from the East Lothian constituency, is today.

Boundaries Scotland revealed plans last month to scrap the East Lothian constituency at Holyrood and instead split the county, electorally, into two new seats: Edinburgh Eastern, Musselburgh and Tranent – which would also include Elphinstone, Whitecraig and Wallyford – and Lothian Eastern, covering the rest of the county.

The proposals have been criticised by politicians, community groups and East Lothian Council, with the council lodging an official objection to the proposals.

READ MORE: New Scottish Parliament East Lothian constituency proposals revealed

East Lothian’s MSP Paul McLennan called the proposals “nonsensical”, while South Scotland MSP Martin Whitfield said he was “very disappointed” with the proposals.

The review was praised however by Musselburgh MSP Colin Beattie who said: “I will be sorry to lose Musselburgh, Wallyford, Whitecraig and Monktonhall from my constituency, but the new boundaries for what will be called Midlothian North better encompass communities that live and work together.”

Comments can still be made on the proposals until midnight tonight at: https://consult.boundaries.scot/reviews/sp_constituencies_revised_proposals/consultation/intro/

Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council has already submitted an objection to the proposals, and chair of the group Mike Falconer, encouraged others to make their voices heard.

READ MORE: Fears boundary change could make Tranent 'suburb of Edinburgh' 

He said: “If you have concerns about the changes and you don’t object, they are going to assume that you don’t care. It is important that people make their opinions known before it is too late.

“I had expected there to be more of a reaction from the community, but it is not too late to have your voice heard.

“It just takes two minutes to fill out the form and I’d encourage as many people as possible to do so.”