Flat plan may sink boatyard

A DEVELOPER has submitted plans to demolish a boatyard, which built torpedo boats and pontoons during the Second World War, to make way for flats.

The development, which is being run in partnership between developer Morris & Spottiswood and East Lothian Council, would see the affordable homes built on the site of Cockenzie Boat Repair Yard.

Plans to close the boatyard sparked anger among the local community, who fear the town’s historic ties to boat-building will be lost.

A campaign to save the yard was launched by former police custody officer John Simpson.