Council looking to move

One of the three council offices

A new civic centre could be built in West Lothian under proposals being discussed by the local authority.

A sheriff court, police station and council headquarters could all be created on one central site in Livingston, the council has revealed.

A location for the new buildings has already been chosen, but council leaders said they are yet to make a final decision on whether or not to move.

Graeme Morrice, leader of West Lothian Council, said the proposal was still in its infancy.

He said: "We have been advised that we would need to spend around £5m on essential maintenance to our three main council buildings in Bathgate, Linlithgow and Livingston over the next five years.

"A proposal has been put forward to build a new sheriff court and police station in Livingston and we need to see if there is a business case for a partnership development, which would include new replacement council offices and other community facilities.

Public consultation

"The council recently approved the sale of land at Dedridge North for £26m which would help to finance this proposed project and a suitable site has been identified."

He added: "Consideration would need to be given to the future of our three main council buildings - West Lothian House at Livingston, Lindsay House at Bathgate and County Buildings at Linlithgow.

"But we would ensure that a council presence is maintained in all three towns along with the provision of new community facilities."

Mr Morrice said a full public consultation would be carried out along with discussions with staff and trade unions before any decisions were taken.