Future Secure for Inveresk

Inveresk Lodge Garden in Musselburgh was facing closure if further funding could not be sourced to support the property. However, East Lothian Council have confirmed annual support for the garden, which with cost savings and local support from the Inveresk Village Society, will allow the garden to remain open. There will be no staff redundancies.

The property is owned by the National Trust for Scotland, who have had to make significant cuts this year. Chief Executive Kate Mavor said, “We are very pleased that all of these properties will remain open and that visitors will be able to enjoy them for years to come. The Trust is hugely grateful to the local authorities, communities and individuals who have pledged their support to the charity and these properties.

“We hope that people will continue to show their support for our organisation and our work to protect and preserve Scotland’s treasures by visiting our properties, becoming members and volunteers and supporting our appeals. We need your support to succeed.”

East Lothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, Cllr. Stuart Currie, said, “Inveresk Garden is a popular attraction for local residents and visitors. We had a very constructive meeting with National Trust for Scotland and have put funding in place for an immediate solution. We will continue to work together to secure the future of the garden over the longer term.”

The David Livingstone Centre in Blantyre has also been saved with South Lanarkshire Council stepping in to significantly increase the support that they provide. A decision on the future of Barry Mill, near Carnoustie is expected in the next few weeks.