West Lothian Council are inviting residents to attend a public consultation on the long-term development strategy of the region.

The new West Lothian Local Development Plan (LDP) will replace the current Local Plan.

It determines the approach to developing housing, infrastructure, schools and business in the area up to 2024.

The six-week exhibition began on Monday, 12 October and will run until Sunday, 22 November.

The plan identifies development sites and developer requirements to contribute towards the provision of infrastructure, including supporting the delivery of new schools.

Over 19,000 houses are proposed, with the majority in the Core Development Areas of Armadale, East Broxburn/Uphall/Winchburgh and the Almond Valley at Calderwood, East Calder and West Livingston.

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The plans also support development at Heartlands in Whitburn and the former Bangour hospital in Dechmont, as well as proposing to relax the 'area of restraint' in Linlithgow.

It is understood the LDP is expected to be adopted by early 2017.

Councillor Cathy Muldoon said: "It's fantastic news that West Lothian is a growing area, with investment by developers taking place across the area. 

"However it's important that any developments are in the best interests of West Lothian and the Local Development Plan sets out the strategic vision across the area."

The public exhibitions will take place on:

• 21 October, 10am to 8pm, West Lothian Civic Centre Reception, Livingston.

• 28 October, 10am to 8pm, Reception area, Bathgate Partnership Centre, Bathgate.

• 02 November, 10am to 8pm, Education Room, Linlithgow Burgh Halls, Linlithgow.

• 05 November, 10am to 8pm, Reception area, Fauldhouse Partnership Centre, Fauldhouse.

• 09 November, 10am  to 8pm, Reception area, Strathbrock Partnership Centre.

You can view the LDP online here

(LM/MH)