Martin Whitfield MSP has visited Cockenzie House and Gardens to underline his support for its community ownership bid and receive an update on the latest developments at the important community facility. 

The South Scotland MSP met with trustees to hear more about the charity’s bid to secure community ownership of the site, as well as its summer events and other recent developments, and toured some of the various studios located in the house.

Cockenzie House and Gardens now offers 47 studios for artists, small businesses, and therapists; a Willow Room for parties; two self-catering cottages; Café Filly; and its beautiful gardens which hose a range of events and activities.

Speaking after the visit Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“Over the last few years I have followed the significant progress made in developing the house and gardens as vital elements of the economic, social and cultural fabric of the community in Cockenzie and surrounding areas.

“As local feedback and support for the community ownership bid indicates, it has become a widely recognised and much appreciated hub for a wide range of activities and events as well as supporting economic and social activity in the area.

“I welcome this progress and fully support the aim to bring the house and gardens into community ownership to help sustain and enhance the work that has been undertaken so far. I look forward to following the bid’s progress and the further benefits community ownership could bring to the village and local people.”