The first stage of a new path providing access to Dunbar Railway Station from the south of the town has been completed.
Works by East Lothian Council on a section of pathway on its land to the south of the railway boundary, including landscaping, were concluded on Wednesday, 29 October and the path will open shortly.
Following a period of design work, Network Rail are expected to begin works on its land in January to connect the path to the southern platform.
The path has a shallower slope than its predecessor to ensure better accessibility.
The gate into the station at the southern platform will remain closed until the end of March when all works are scheduled to be finished. As part of the improvements, the gate will be widened and a fence added to prevent access onto the railway line for safety. Covered cycle parking, and ticket machines will be installed at that point.
The council’s plans for the project were first shared with the community several years ago and the resulting feedback from engagement and consultation was incorporated into the design.
Direct access
The Scottish Government is fully funding the works by both the council and Network Rail with £577,000 provided through their Active Travel Infrastructure Fund.
Cllr Norman Hampshire, leader of East Lothian Council, said: “I’m pleased the works undertaken by the council have been successfully completed and we look forward to Network Rail beginning the next stage in the coming months.
“Once the path is open to the public, it will provide direct access to the southern station platform without rail passengers, including cyclists, having to walk or cycle around to the north station entrance and then cross back over the bridge to access the southern platform.
“Its construction commenced after detailed discussions with Dunbar residents, and we hope it will encourage more people to walk or cycle to the station to use the rail network.”
Catherine Hall, strategy and investment director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “We know how important this new access is to the Dunbar community and are excited to be moving forward.
“Our team is currently finalising the design to ensure the connection is safe, accessible and works well for everyone using it.
Construction is planned to begin in January, and once complete in the spring, the news path will offer a more direct, convenient and inclusive way to reach the station.”
Better connectivity
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:
“I’m pleased to see progress on the Dunbar Station access path, supported by £577,000 from the Scottish Government’s Active Travel Infrastructure Fund. This project will make it easier and safer for people to walk, wheel and cycle to the station, while improving accessibility and encouraging more sustainable travel choices.
“The new path, developed in close consultation with the local community, reflects our commitment to inclusive design and better public transport connections. Once complete, it will provide direct access to the southern platform, offering quicker and better connectivity.
“This initiative is part of the over £26 million I announced in May for construction-ready active travel projects, and underlines our continued investment in healthier, greener communities. In 2025-26, the Scottish Government will invest over £188 million in active and sustainable transport – helping people save money, improve health, and reduce reliance on private cars for everyday journeys.”
Published: Tuesday, 4th November 2025
