A new sports pitch and high-spec changing pavilion has been completed and transferred to East Lothian Council ownership.
The facilities form part of the 810-home Letham Mains development in Haddington and will be made available to the local school, Letham Primary, as well as youth teams and the general public. They will be operated on behalf East Lothian Council by the charitable trust, enjoyleisure.
Conforming to Sport Scotland natural turf pitch requirements, the playing surface and drainage was installed by Penicuik-based sports specialists, SportsMasters. The pitch can be adapted to be used for a range of different sports, including football, rugby and hockey and is anticipated to be available for full use from the 2025/26 season to allow the grass to take root.
Cala Homes commissioned the work as well as constructing the changing pavilion, which benefits from a PV solar panel array to boost sustainability credentials and lower running costs.
Derek Lawson, strategic land director at Cala Homes (East), said, “The overarching vision at Letham Mains was to create a vibrant and healthy community and expansion to the town. This sports facility is emblematic of this – and is a timely boost for the young people who will be able to train and bond through using it. We hope it is embraced by the school and youth teams and serves the community for generations to come.”
Councillor Colin McGinn, cabinet spokesperson for community wellbeing and sport, countryside, and leisure at East Lothian Council, added, “It’s vitally important that new developments bring a broader benefit to our region, whether through investing in infrastructure, or projects like this at Letham Mains. As a result of the creation of this fantastic facility, residents can now benefit and I hope that it encourages more young people to keep an active and healthy lifestyle.”
