North Berwick Community Development Company

Connecting people, reclaiming spaces & strengthening North Berwick

WHY WE EXIST

To Retain & Transform Our Valued Spaces Into Inclusive Hubs.

Rapid growth and rising property pressures there is a need to develop social cohesion, connect the vulnerable groups and increase access to shared facilities.

Threatened Community Spaces

East Lothian Council is under financial strain, with falling government grants and approved savings of millions. Councillors propose leasing or transferring local community centres, including North Berwick’s, as a way to balance budgets. Without community control, valued assets could be repurposed or lost.

Poor Access & Management Capabilities

Users report restricted hours, confusing booking systems and inconsistent charges at council-run facilities. The North Berwick Community Centre suffers from unclear booking processes and worn-out infrastructure. The CDC can improve access and modernise these spaces.

Overlooked Community Value

Residents want to keep every existing community asset because they provide vital services and social connection. Yet participants worry that cost-cutting will overlook their true value. The CDC exists to champion these spaces and ensure decisions reflect local needs.

OUR VISION FOR 2028

VISION

01

Community Ownership

By 2028, we aim to bring at least one major community asset into local ownership.
This will ensure the spaces that matter most stay in community hands. Our goal is to protect and enhance these places for future generations.

02

Inclusive Facilities

We will establish vibrant, inclusive spaces at the heart of North Berwick.
Saving our cherish assets but also transforming them into welcoming places where people connect, learn, and belong.

03

Stronger Together

We’re building a sustainable model of funding and participation that empowers local people.
Together, we’ll create opportunities for wellbeing and collaboration.
Our legacy will be a stronger, more connected North Berwick for generations to come.

OUR PURPOSE

Learn more about the Community Development Company

Why does the Community Development Company (CDC) exist? Why are local residents working together? What is at stake for North Berwick and those that live here?

Who are we

Local Residents Passionate About Our Community

Are you a passionate resident? We understand everyone is busy but take 5 minutes a month to have your say and help shape the future of North Berwick.

COMMUNITY

Our Members

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

We Love North Berwick

The team involved with the CDC really do care about the people of North Berwick!

★★★★★

Nick McCashin

Highly Recommended

The board have some excellent experience in managing these types of projects.

★★★★★

Min-ji Park

Benefits To All Groups

Heavily involved in the Music scene of North Berwick but the CDC care about all groups!

★★★★★

Lauren Hill

Have Questions?

Frequently Asked
Questions

What is the North Berwick CDC?

The NBCDC is a not-for-profit, community-led organisation working to protect and develop local spaces for the benefit of everyone in North Berwick. We connect people, strengthen community life, and ensure valued assets remain in local hands.

Why was the CDC created?

It was formed in response to growing concerns about the loss of community spaces and the need for a trusted local group to take ownership of important sites. The CDC exists to give residents a real voice in shaping the town’s future.

What are the CDC’s main goals?

Our goals are to secure at least one community asset, establish a thriving community centre, and build a sustainable model for community-led projects. Everything we do aims to improve wellbeing, belonging, and resilience in North Berwick.

How is the CDC funded?

We access funding from national grants, local trusts, partnerships, and community contributions. The long-term aim is to create self-sustaining projects that can reinvest directly back into the town.

How can I get involved?

You can become a member, volunteer your time or skills, or support us financially. Whether you join a working group or simply share your ideas, every contribution helps shape a stronger, more connected community.

What’s next for the CDC?

Our current focus is on securing a community asset and developing a new, inclusive community centre for North Berwick. We’re also working on building partnerships, strengthening funding, and ensuring residents remain at the heart of every decision.

Need further information?

What is this, who is it for, how can you be involved? Join the conversation if you are passionate about North Berwick.