Libraries under threat as council looks to cut costs

Swimming pools could also face closure

Four libraries in West Lothian could be closed as part of drastic cost-saving measures which could also see swimming pools and community centres under threat.

A review of all facilities is underway, with officers warning that some of the council’s assets will need to go to meet budget demands.

And the message to councillors after 15 years and £150million worth of cuts to council services is that nothing is off the table.

Papers on some of the potential property closures went before a special meeting on Thursday.

It listed four standalone libraries which could be closed if councillors make the decision later this month.

Standout among these is the elegant Edwardian West Calder facility. Others suggested include Craig Inn, Almondbank and Pumpherston.

Footfall in all of these libraries is down.

A review of energy use across the council was also launched in the Autumn as gas and electricity prices began to soar.

And Swimming pools – huge users of energy – are under the microscope as council officers study usage.

However, Councillor Lawrence Fitzpatrick cautioned: “Can I remind people again that these are officer proposals, no decision has been made.”

Head of Finance Donald Forrest said he had never seen such extreme increases in energy costs in his 30year career.

Mr Forrest said the number of swimming pools – 18 in West Lothian – is the highest per head of population in the United Kingdom.

Neighbouring Falkirk has six and Edinburgh has 11.

Mr Forrest added: “At this stage there are no specific proposals relating to swimming pools.

“That would be after the conclusion of the full review which takes place throughout 2023.”

A far reaching mapping exercise of community centre use across the county is also underway.

It is understood the council will look to transfer community control of these assets – recognising that the real community value is in the groups which use the buildings.

Also under review are the number of council administrative buildings, though not Partnership buildings.

West Lothian Council now faces a budget gap of £47.1 million between 2023 and 2028.

The gap is caused by increasing costs and a rising population, combined with insufficient levels of government grant funding. The council workforce numbers around 7000.

There are no compulsory redundancies, in line with longstanding council policy, and cuts are more likely to come from not filling vacancies and not replacing staff who leave or retire.

Graham Hope, West Lothian Council’s Chief Executive said: “We have been very open and clear with local residents and partner organisations that there is little doubt local services will have to change in the face of such stark reductions in our budget.

“Whilst we still have a significant budget to deliver key services, there will be significantly less money to spend on local services, initiatives and programmes.

“It’s simply not possible to continue all existing services with the budget we will have available to us.

We have been open and clear there is little doubt local services will have to change