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Gas Escape at East Lothian Construction Site Now Under Control
A gas escape incident at a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) construction site in Cockenzie, East Lothian, has been managed with a temporary repair in place, following reports of a loud ‘whooshing’ sound and a strong smell of gas from local residents. The alarm was first raised on the evening of Thursday, September 10.
Engineers from SGN are currently on-site, working towards a permanent repair that they report is progressing well. Residents have expressed concerns regarding the incident, with some experiencing symptoms such as headaches and sore eyes, reportedly linked to the gas escape.
Local community members have voiced their frustrations, highlighting ongoing worries about the construction of the controversial battery storage facility. Rebs Curtis-Moss, a resident living nearby, mentioned a lack of communication from SGN since the incident occurred. She stated that the gas leak had exacerbated fears regarding the health implications of having such a facility near their homes and a local primary school.
Another resident, Niomi Fox, reported that the smell of gas was detectable over a considerable distance, affecting areas as far as Prestonpans and Port Seton. She described experiencing red and sore eyes, as well as headaches, which she believes are common among other residents.
Concerns regarding safety were echoed by Danielle Purves, who urged the council to conduct a risk assessment due to the proximity of the construction site to local schools and youth groups. The potential for a gas leak to affect these facilities raised alarms among residents.
SGN workers have been observed conducting checks on neighbouring properties to monitor the situation. While the intense smell has reportedly diminished, headaches continue to affect some residents. Many have expressed frustration over their voices feeling ignored in the decision-making process related to the construction of the battery storage site.
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for SGN stated that the gas escape was caused by damage to the gas network by a third party. They affirmed that essential work for a permanent repair is ongoing and expected to conclude the same evening. Meanwhile, East Lothian Council indicated they are in communication with SGN as emergency repairs are carried out and confirmed that there is currently no cause for concern.
Residents are continuing to share their experiences and concerns regarding the underlying safety issues connected to the construction site. The situation is being monitored closely by both SGN and local authorities as they work to address community worries directly linked to the ongoing construction activities.
