Councillors halted the second phase last year when it emerged some phase one homes were not connected to the mains sewer, with residents reporting noise, smells and regular tanker visits to empty a temporary waste container.

Although Bellway later secured approval for phase two, on the basis that no further homes would be built until a mains sewer link was in place, a new application submitted last month shows waste from 20 homes would drain by gravity into the existing network, with 181 relying on an onsite pumping station.

Residents alerted the council that work had already restarted. Planning officers visited the site and confirmed construction had begun without all pre‑commencement conditions being signed off. The council has demanded an immediate halt, warning that enforcement action may follow.

A residents’ liaison committee, set up in 2024 to improve communication with Bellway, has now disbanded, saying meetings had “achieved nothing”.

Members criticised the continued use of a pumping station, citing previous issues with smells and blockages, and accused both Scottish Water and the council of failing to act.

East Lothian Council said details of the pumping station should have been approved before work began and that a meeting with Bellway will be arranged.

Bellway said no enforcement notice has been issued and that it remains in discussions with the council to ensure compliance and deliver affordable homes.