Brunton Theatre was a gift, so must stay in Musselburgh - Andrew Smith

As you will know, the building was built using money bequeathed to the town of Musselburgh by the late Mr J D Brunton to provide a hall primarily for the benefit of its residents (£700,000 ‘Family Fortune’ at the time of his death in 1951). In essence, it was a gift to the people of Musselburgh, I believe, in gratitude for the contribution of the local men and women who, through hard work and dedication established the name of Brunton's not only nationwide but worldwide too. During its existence the industry provided employment to the area for more than 120 years.

The Brunton Theatre was a gift to the people of Musselburgh

This is a most unfortunate problem with the building materials, and I wonder if the Council has sought independent expert advice for a solution, rather than demolish the building. If the proposal is to go ahead with the long-term future of the theatre to Haddington Corn-Exchange then Musselburgh loses out big time with nothing to show for Mr Brunton’s generosity. I know the temporary measures incorporate shows in Loretto but it’s not the same as the proper theatre on the existing site. It appears the money bequeathed to the town of Musselburgh is not being properly considered or taken into account. The facilities provided by the Brunton Theatre and its halls will disappear and all that Musselburgh residents will be left with is an empty decaying white elephant. This is why it’s unfair as no one is accountable for wrong decisions these days and I would just like to receive assurance that every avenue (including the building insurance) has been investigated to keep the theatre in Musselburgh.

It could be construed that, in the event of demolition of the theatre and halls, the proud name of Brunton's would be erased from the town in which its manufacturing base was located. New houses have been built on part of the site formerly occupied by Brunton's known as Mall Park ie next to the bus depot. There is now in place a sign calling the new houses "Dundas Wireworks". This is misleading as it was only ever Brunton's Wireworks on this site. Mr J D Brunton will be turning in his grave.

If inspiration on how to show some sort of tribute to the man is needed, go to Dundee and visit the Verdant Works Museum, an exhibition recounting the jute industry. It's appropriate and impressive. Whilst there, look at their showpiece museum side by side with the ship Discovery and the Caird Hall.

Musselburgh has a museum which does its best to honour the three historic industries which existed ie

Steel Wire Ropes

Fishing net production

Paper making.

However, the premises are too small - it's just a shop which is closed during the winter months and whilst the staff, who are volunteers, do a good job, I fear it is just a question of time till it closes permanently or is moved to Haddington just like the theatre and the Brunton Theatre Trust.