Spotlight on‘unique’ local area

Fiona Hyslop, MSP for Linlithgow, has highlighted the various unique towns in her area, highlighting their special features and the importance of ensuring they can thrive.

The debate was brought to Parliament by the Economy and Fair Work Committee, of which Ms Hyslop is a member, following their major Inquiry into Town Centres and Retail in Scotland.

She said:“We have unique and very distinct towns inWest Lothian in my constituency, all of whom need their own Town Action Plan led by their local communities and I was pleased to highlight them in the Economy and Fair Work Committee’s debate on February 28 to highlight the importance of local towns across Scotland and those in my own constituency.

“My constituency has six towns and the uniqueness of each area and its community contributes immensely to the fabric of society and our local economy.

“Bathgate is home to Scotland’s first ever Business Improvement District and its successful Connecting Bathgate initiative has supported businesses in the town.

“Linlithgow is also innovative, with the Community Development Trust and Business Improvement District combining in One Linlithgow.

“I also spoke about the need to support councils in being able to take over derelict gap sites which we have inWhitburn and Linlithgow in particular.

“Our town centres are not simply high streets for retail, they connect people, communities and business and the Economy and FairWork Committee’s Inquiry demonstrated the extent to which local people depend on that connection to survive and thrive themselves.

“With the creation of 20-minute neighbourhoods and ensuring our local communities are accessible for all, we can help ensure our town centres are fit for the future.”