Chief executive Angela Leitch has urged site owners ScottishPower to begin discussions with the council on its future plans for the land.

Chair of the Cockenzie cross party Member/Officer Working Group, Cllr John McMillan, is writing to Scottish Enterprise to request clarification on its proposals for the area, following the submission to the council of a Proposal of-Application Notice on 2 June 2014.

Angela Leitch said: “Now that our Main Issues Report consultation has closed we must move towards major decisions in the preparation of our proposed Local Development Plan. It is very difficult for us to strategically plan in land use and economic development terms with the current ambiguity.

“As site owners, ScottishPower has a critical role in determining the future of this location. It also has a planning approval to develop a high efficiency gas power station on the land. However it has not confirmed if it intends to continue with this development.

“The council is coming under pressure to develop a masterplan for the area. With no clear picture coming forward it would be imprudent to commit substantial public funds – and raise public expectations – creating a vision for land which is in private ownership.

“We are also seeking clarity from Scottish Enterprise on its proposals for the site which have caused concern across the community.

“We are therefore seeking a meeting with relevant parties to obtain clarity for the council and our community.”

Cockenzie Power Station closed production in March 2013. The site has lain dormant since then with its iconic 500ft high ­chimneys being safely demolished by a company hired by ScottishPower.