Local Labour representatives and council candidates have welcomed the news that the Fraser Centre Community Trust and East Lothian Council have secured £730,000 regeneration funding to help support plans for rebuilding the facility.

Commenting on the announcement Iain Gray MSP, who has long supported the centre’s plans to become a modern community hub for learning, development, arts & entertainment in the heart of Tranent, said:

“This is fantastic news for everyone at the Fraser Centre and for the whole of Tranent. The centre has outstanding plans for its future and securing these funds will go a long way towards helping them realise their vision. I wish the centre’s trustees, staff and volunteers every success with raising the rest of the funding needed to complete this important project.”

Fa’side councillor Jim Gillies said:

“I’m delighted for Jonny and everyone else at the Fraser Centre. They have worked really hard to reach this point and deserve great praise for the progress they have made. It’s also another great example of the work the Council is doing to support the development of Tranent, following on from the excellent Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) initiative.”

The new Labour candidates for the Tranent/Wallyford/Macmerry ward have also welcomed the news.

Fiona Dugdale said:

“I often attend events and activities at the Fraser Centre with my son and know how much it is valued by local people. David and his volunteers do a great job with limited resources, but securing this funding is a big step towards their ultimate goal of modernising the centre and becoming a resource for the whole community.”

Colin McGinn added:

“The Fraser Centre has made remarkable progress over the last few years. This is down to the commitment of those involved in its development but also the support it has received from the local community. If I am elected in May I will make supporting the Centre’s development one of my top priorities.”