HOPES that a village hall will serve the community for decades to come have been boosted.

Aberlady Village Hall was built in 1884 but concerns had grown that “significant improvements” were needed to secure the future of the building.

The popular facility is utilised by a number of community groups and for private functions.

In 2022, it was used on nearly 300 days over the course of the year.

Aberlady Community Association applied to East Lothian Council’s planning department for upgrades to the building.

Permission has now been granted for 54 solar panels on the Sea Wynd building’s roof, as well as the installation of an air source heat pump and new storm doors.

A design statement included with the application noted that the improvements could be split into three main areas.

READ MORE: Plans drawn up for the future of Aberlady Village Hall

That was work to make the hall wind and watertight, as well as energy efficient.

Lastly, changes to the layout of the building were proposed to make the hall “more appealing and safer for residents and event organisers”.

The design statement noted: “The objectives of this improvement project are to create a safe, secure and well-functioning space for community use, to provide a well-equipped venue that can generate income through regular community events and private bookings like weddings and parties, and to maintain the character of the building while upgrading and enhancing its facilities.”

Changes inside the building include the extension of the kitchen, while alterations to both the male and female toilets have been given the go-ahead alongside new storage areas.

The plans had attracted no objections from members of the public.

The village hall was originally built as the headquarters for the 4th (Aberlady) Corps of the Haddingtonshire Rifle Volunteers, established in 1860.