Plans for new £1m centre
Partnership centre for Armadale
Plans for a new £ 1m partnership centre in Armadale have been given the green light.
The proposals will see the existing community centre altered and extended to develop Armadale Partnership Centre.
At a recent West Lothian Council Executive Committee it was also agreed that opportunities to secure additional external funding would be sought to develop the youth space project in the council building at The Cross.
The committee also acknowledged the successful community engagement which had been carried out on the proposals, which subject to planning approval, includes the development of two buildings within The plans include a small extension to the front of the community centre for additional meeting space and a larger extension to the rear to accommodate early years’ provision and the ground floor would be reconfigured to accommodate the council’s Customer Information Services (CIS) office and Housing Service.
The proposed changes would allow both the council and the voluntary management committee to address the needs of the community which were expressed during the engagement activity.
The council will now engage an architect, quantity surveyors and technical advisors to finalise the plans and submit planning applications later this year.
It is expected that the planning application will address issues in respect of parking and pedestrian crossings.
Leader of West Lothian Council John McGinty said the new centre is part of a plan to provide even better services for residents in West Lothian communities.
He said: “West Lothian Council is committed to providing our local communities with excellent services and to looking for new and innovative ways to improve the way we plan, manage and deliver services to ensure the best value for council taxpayers.
“The approval for the proposals for a new partnership centre in Armadale to move forward is a significant step forward.
“The council has a proven track record in delivering joined- up services for local communities.”
The council leader said that the local authority is keen to ensure the new centre will service Armadale and its surrounding area and attract people to the town.
John McGinty added: “The proposals for reconfiguration and extension of Armadale Community Centre, representing an investment of almost £1 million will ensure the building is multi-functional, modern and fit for purpose.
“The proposals also provide an opportunity to re- invigorate the community centre whilst delivering a modern customer-focused service in Armadale which would add vibrancy to the town centre and address the desire of the community to enhance the town’s reputation.”
The proposals represent an investment of £1m