Petition against 'nonsense' F1 circuit proposal at Musselburgh beauty spot gathers 5,000 signatures in a day

Plans to build a Formula 1-style race track on the site of a future East Lothian wildlife haven have been slammed as 'nonsense' by a local conservation group.

The response from the Musselburgh Conservation Society comes as it emerged that a petition has been launched in a bid to halt the controversial proposal at Musselburgh Lagoons.

Hosted on 38degrees.co.uk, the petition Say NO to detrimental developments at Musselburgh Lagoons has attracted 5,000 signatures in just 24 hours.

Objectors say the racing track would compromise an area of scientific interest as well as destroy access to the coastline.

The project has been put forward by businessman Bob Jamieson who said it will bring cash and jobs to the area.

The development would see other sports facilities added at the site, including an ice rink, gym and speedway venue.

The land is currently listed as a Scottish Wildlife Trust wildlife site and is considered an important roosting site for wading birds.

Retired businessman Bob Jamieson recently revealed plans to establish an F1-style racing circuit at Musselburgh lagoon.

Owned by East Lothian Council, the outer perimeter of the area also forms part of the John Muir Way.

A council spokesperson confirmed on Thursday that a formal planning application for the race track has yet to be submitted by Mr Jamieson.

The Musselburgh Conservation Society have strongly objected to the race circuit idea, branding it “nonsense”.

Society chairman Alan Armour said: "The Musselburgh Conservation Society finds it incredulous that a proposal should be put forward for a Formula One track and related activities on the Musselburgh Lagoons.

“How could anyone think that a Formula One track with its associated noise, disruption and traffic generation could be in any way acceptable here?

“This proposal should be rejected out of hand now. No elected member or council officer time should be spent talking to those proposing this nonsense and certainly any planning application that might regardless ensue should be refused outright.”

Mr Jamieson previously said using the space for wildlife is a “wasted opportunity” and wants to see it redeveloped to increase the economic value of the area.

But the conservation group strongly disagree and believe that the wildlife heaven provides an important outdoor space.

Mr Armour said: “The proposer takes the view that the lagoons represent a wasted asset not producing any income or employment for the local community.

“We would argue that no price can be put on the asset that the Lagoons represent as a large and unique easily accessible recreational area for all to enjoy away from the hustle and bustle of urban living.”

Responding to the petition against the plans, one signatory said they struggled to believe Mr Jamieson’s proposal for the site was for real.

They said: “This has to be a joke or cover for something else. How can anyone think this is a good idea?

"This is an area known for its wildlife and peace and belongs to the whole of our community, not just those who'll make money out of business.”

Another signatory added: “We have enough noise pollution, traffic congestion and too few peaceful places we can escape to. Keep our green space and protect wildlife habitats.”

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