Bringing history to life in Prestonpans
The challenge
As an experienced heritage copywriter, I collaborated with external consultant Lyndsey Clark on editing and proofreading new interpretation panels designed for the Civic Square in Prestonpans, East Lothian.
This was part of a wider project to regenerate Prestonpans’ Civic Square – the principal public space in the coastal town – and specifically the local war memorial. The project has since won a national Scottish Design Award 2023.
How I was involved
My role was to proofread and edit two large-format interpretation panels, with information on the built, natural and cultural assets of the town, including the war memorial. These panels were designed to encourage walkers and cyclists passing through the town to stop in Prestonpans.
My job was to make sure that the content was clear, factually accurate and engaging for local residents and visitors alike. The words also needed to be sensitively written and provide a fitting tribute to those who had lost their lives in the two world wars.
The outcome
The first phase of the project opened in late 2022. The project involved East Lothian Council, Prestonpans Community Council, Rankinfraser landscape architecture, designers Artibrand, my client Lyndsey Clark and other partners.
I loved working with Lyndsey on this fascinating project. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with Lyndsey on other related projects, including editing and proofreading a heritage walking trail leaflet and new interpretation panels for Preston Tower and Gardens.