But Lothian's reasons for this continued development are not selfish. Lothian Thistle are great believers in minor grade football and see the development of Saughton Enclosure as a benefit to both juvenile and amateur football as many minor cup finals are held at the complex. Lothian's roots are in amateur football and season 2003/04 saw the club restart an amateur side which competes in the Edinburgh and Lothian Amateur League.

With 25 years of playing experience in the amateur ranks, and having contributed several players to the Scottish Amateur International side, including current committee member Euan Lindsay, Lothian Thistle are uniquely positioned to understand the need for a top class facility in which to host amateur and juvenile cup finals and as long as they have the means to contribute, they will continue to help in any way they can.

In season, 2003/04, saw the Lothian club increase in size with the addition of two teams. In a move to go back to its roots in the amateur game, an amateur side was formed which competes in the Edinburgh and Lothian Amateur League and an under 19 side was entered into the East of Scotland under 19 youth initiative.