COUNCILLORS have unanimously agreed the closure and mothballing of Musselburgh’s Brunton Hall.

The building, which was officially opened by the Queen Mother in the summer of 1971, has been partially closed since last spring after potentially safe reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was found.

This morning, councillors had a lengthy discussion about what the future held for the building and also the future of the arts in the town.

READ MORE: Petition calls for new theatre if The Brunton is demolished

Members agreed that there was a continued desire to see an arts facility in the town, with talks about a replacement venue if The Brunton were demolished.

Caroline Rodgers, head of communities, and Tom Reid, head of infrastructure at East Lothian Council, released a joint statement following the meeting in Haddington Town House.

They said: “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.”

No formal decision on demolition has been made at this time, with councillors agreeing that a statutory consultation will be undertaken, as the building is a Common Good asset.