The ambitious transformation of the historic Co-operative Bakery in West Calder into the Scottish Co-operative Discovery Centre is steadily progressing, having now reached its halfway construction milestone.

This project, spearheaded by the West Calder and Harburn Community Development Trust (WCHCDT), aims to convert the derelict building into a vibrant hub for local economic growth, community cohesion, and a celebration of the Co-operative movement's rich history in Scotland.

Upon completion, the centre will not only feature a heritage attraction with an interactive exhibition but also provide essential spaces for community activities, training, and wellbeing services. The initiative is projected to create 22 new jobs and offer 150 annual training opportunities, specifically targeting disadvantaged individuals within the community. West Lothian Council has played a crucial supporting role, assisting the WCHCDT with funding applications and providing input from its Museums service to ensure the local co-operative movement's history is fully captured, including the loan of collections for display.

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Significant funding has been secured for the capital and construction phases from multiple sources, including the Place Based Investment Funding, Regeneration Capital Grant Funding from the Scottish Government, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, the UK Government Community Ownership Fund, and various smaller trusts and charities. This financial backing is further bolstered by local windfarm community benefits and a community share scheme.

With construction now at its midpoint, the project team recently invited key partners, including West Lothian Council Executive Councillor for Economy, Community Empowerment & Wealth Building, Susan Manion, and Community Wealth Building Manager Clare Stewart, for a site tour to witness the progress firsthand.

Councillor Manion commented on the development: "The project builds on a proud local history to create a new national attraction with local roots. The area's co-operative heritage will be a catalyst for improving community wellbeing, inclusion and opportunity locally and celebrating and sharing the history and future potential of the co-operative model. It's exciting to see it all taking shape and I'm sure the tremendous efforts of WCHCDT and partners will be rewarded with a fantastic venue and destination that will be enjoyed by many."

Matt Pearce, Trust Manager for WCHCDT, shared his satisfaction with the progress: "We are delighted to be able to show progress to date. We are well on the way to delivering our vision. The support we have received from West Lothian Council has been and continues to be critical to the project's success. We are now focussed on delivering the exciting exhibition element."