28/03/2024
It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce that the Bistro at the Brunton under my management has closed its’ doors for the last time. It will now be East Lothian Council and The Brunton Theatre Trust’s decision as to whether, or when it will re-open.
Zandra Borthwick and myself opened the business eighteen years ago and I am sure you will appreciate this has been a very difficult decision to take. However, in the end there is no alternative but to close. In recent years, the business has faced many financial challenges. The pandemic presented major difficulties for our operation, which had a heavy financial impact on our sustainability. Unfortunately, the closure of the Theatre, Venues 1 & 2, the reduction in office use by East Lothian Council and the current cost of living crisis has had a devastating effect on the business. The situation has been compounded by the lack of information on how, when and if the building problems will be resolved. Despite our very best efforts, it has not been possible to continue.
Back in 2006 at the opening of the Bistro at the Brunton, Councillor Norman Murray suggested the facility had the potential to be a thriving social hub for Musselburgh and beyond. I believe we delivered on this in the eighteen years that we have operated.
I truly appreciate the support so many of you have offered myself and the Bistro team over the years. Taking the decision to close has been a very difficult and an emotionally draining experience for myself and the Bistro staff. I would however encourage everyone to share this information as it is important to me that our wonderful, loyal customers and clients learn the news of our abrupt closure before their next planned visit.
I am sad to say goodbye to the Bistro and all it meant to all of us. Thank you once again for your support and understanding.
Norma Buchan
