East Lothian Coastal Cleanup: Morrison's Haven

Join us to remove marine debris from the beach between Prestonpans and Musselburgh Lagoons, whilst enjoying some amazing marine wildlife and habitats with like-minded people. This beach clean will begin at Morrison’s Haven Car Park, from where we will work our way towards Prestonpans, covering as much ground as possible within 1 hour before retracing our steps towards the car park and picking up any litter we might have missed. We will only collect what we can reasonably carry back to the start point, where the waste will be recorded and left for local Council Amenity Officers to collect.

In the event that there is only a small quantity of debris to collect, we may choose to undertake a citizen science survey (such as a nurdle hunt) and submit the data we collect to increase understanding about marine pollution and habitats.

Friendly, quiet dogs are welcome, but we ask they are kept on a short lead throughout.

Route

This event will concentrate on the rocky beach of Morrison’s Haven, starting and finishing at Morrison’s Haven Car Park (opposite the Prestongrange Mining Museum).

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What will we provide?

We'll provide the beach cleaning kit, including gloves, alcohol hand gel, bin bags and pickers (for those who want them). The group leader will carry a large, waterproof backpack to carry additional debris. Binoculars will also be available to borrow for those who want them. A health and safety briefing will take place before heading onto the shore.

What do you need to bring?

Walking boots or shoes with good grip, clothing appropriate for the weather outside, a drink and food as required, any medication you may need, a mobile phone, sun protection (good weather days).

Accessibility

We will be on the move for around 90 minutes during this clean-up. The terrain here is quite rocky and unsuitable for people with mobility or balance issues. The route may include some gentle slopes, uneven sand, rocky ground, and slippy surfaces. We will always try to adjust the pace and the route to make sure that everyone is comfortable, but please let us know in advance if you have questions or concerns about the distance or the route. You can direct queries to conservationprojects@seabird.org.

We are sorry to say that this site is inaccessible to wheelchair users and pushchairs, as we are currently unable to provide Beach Wheelchairs at this location. However, should you require wheelchair access and wish to get involved in other beach cleanup events, check out our upcoming events at North Berwick and Seton Sands, where we are delighted to provide wheelchair access to its beaches thanks to the incredible work of the team at Beach Wheelchairs.

Transport

The 26 and X26 buses stop every 10-15 minutes at the Prestongrange Mining Museum, which is opposite Morrison’s Haven Car Park. Alternatively, various buses stop at Prestonpans and Musselburgh.

There is free parking at Morrison’s Haven Car Park (note a 2 meter vehicle height restriction, so it is unsuitable for vans or caravans).

Keeping everyone safe

Our group leader is a trained first aider and will be carrying a first aid kit and mobile phone. A copy of the risk assessment for the walk will be available to view before/during the event.

What if the event is cancelled?

If this event is cancelled due to poor weather conditions or other circumstances, we will get in touch with you the day before to let you know.