Councillors in East Lothian are seeking talks with the Scottish Government after Ministers decided to call-in plans to develop the former Cockenzie Power Station site.

Last month the local authority agreed the successful purchase of the site from ScottishPower but an application for planning permission principle for development on part of the site – associated with the proposed Inch Cape offshore wind farm – will now be decided by Ministers instead of the council.

It was agreed at last week’s full council meeting that the council leader would write to the Scottish Government to request a cross-party meeting.

Speaking after the meeting, depute council leader Norman Hampshire said: “We were delighted that East Lothian Council secured ownership of the former Cockenzie Power Station site, which is of huge importance to the economic future of East Lothian and local communities.

“Tuesday’s council meeting was an opportunity for officers to update Members in relation to the site’s purchase and ongoing work.

“We believe local ownership of the site is key to unlocking its future potential. That’s why we were disappointed with the more recent news that an application for planning permission in principle for onshore transmission works on part of the site, associated with the Inch Cape offshore wind farm, has been called in to be decided by Ministers. We await further news of the way ahead and are keen to engage with the determination process.

“More generally, we will be seeking a meeting with the Scottish Government, involving councillors from all parties, on the potential of the site. This reflects its significance and importance to the future of East Lothian, local communities and our economy.

“Following the masterplan report process and extensive community engagement which has taken place to date, we recognise there is a general wish for a mixed use development that will secure significant employment opportunities as well as opportunity for recreation and green space. We will in due course look to market the site for development and await with interest what proposals come forward, with community consultation remaining a key strand.”