West Lothian Council is pledging a £2 million investment in its three country parks.

The country parks at Beecraigs, Polkemmet and Almondell attract around 900,000 visitors every year.

After carrying out a review, the council has now confirmed a range of improvements to the popular outdoor attractions.

The approved programme includes new play equipment at the sites and improvements to footpaths and roads. In addition, a sum will be spent at Beecraigs on toilet improvements, sawmill facilities and caravan and camping site improvements plus essential repairs to country park boundary walls and fences.

-- Advertisement --

"We are spending almost £2 million delivering quality services in our three country parks," said Council Leader Peter Johnston.

"This is a substantial investment - the first in the last decade. We are also actively looking at introducing new outdoor adventure activities for young people in our country parks."

Councillor Johnston continued: "As part of our review, we have decided to reduce the deer herd at Beecraigs to 100 animals. The deer herd is a fantastic visitor attraction, which will remain as an integral part of the country park.

"The reduction will be achieved by a combination of selling animals to other farming enterprises and selling venison, which has been council practice since 1989 when the herd was created."

(NS/JM)