AMBITIOUS plans to create a flexible performance space, climbing hall and bowling lanes will be revealed next week.

Proposals to create the “sport, leisure and entertainment hub” are being drawn up by theSpace Scotland.

The project, which would be built on an area of land known as DunBear Point – to the south-east of Dunbar – has been years in the making.

Now, the team behind the scheme is aiming for an application to be with East Lothian Council by the end of the year.

READ MORE: Bowling alley and skatepark among latest plans for Dunbar

A spokesperson for the group behind the plans said: “The rapid population growth locally is driven by younger and older age groups, so places and spaces that support quality time for families and foster intergenerational connections are vital to maintain a bonded and open-minded community.

“The impact of Covid-19 and the recent huge increases in the cost of living have put huge pressure on individuals, families and our communities.

“The transition from adolescence to adulthood has never been more challenging and there are far too many young people in and around Dunbar struggling for belonging, purpose, self-control and motivation.

“theSpace Dunbar will add to this mix with what we think is missing: a youth-powered community space with a wide range of facilities, events and activities that connects our town, rural and coastal communities, bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together in a shared, safe and positive space. A place to work, play, perform, create and relax.”

Drawings included with the latest plans show the site, sandwiched between the A1 and the East Coast Main Line, featuring a skatepark; performance space suitable for cinema, gigs and theatre; 10-pin bowling; climbing walls and more.

Members of the public will get the chance to have their say on the plans between 2pm and 8m on Wednesday at Hallhill Sports Centre.

The team behind the proposals has already stressed that they are not simply catering for “young people” and were intending to create “a bold multi-generational community space”.

The spokesperson said: “While young people may be a distinct and diverse group, we challenge the idea of young people as a separate community.

“To counter this, and to reflect integration in community life, theSpace Dunbar will promote, motivate and celebrate ‘Youth in Community’."

A consultation event was held 12 months ago.

Feedback, according to the developers, suggests that the population of the area has grown faster than the mix of available sport, leisure, entertainment and employment opportunities that are needed by families and young people.

They are “scheduled” to make a planning application within a matter of weeks and are seeking to have the capital finance and permissions in place by early next year.

That would allow them to break ground on the site later in the year, with a view to opening the doors within two years.