A proposal to relocate Linlithgow's health centre in the town's County Buildings has fallen through.

NHS Lothian has advised West Lothian Council that it no longer plans to go ahead with the proposed move next year.

Now it is planned to retain the whole of the historic building as council offices. Council officers are currently preparing a report for submission to the Council Executive on this issue.

"It is a major disappointment for the community that the health centre will not now be moving into County Buildings," said Councillor Martyn Day, who chairs the Linlithgow Local Area Committee on West Lothian Council.

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"The people of Linlithgow badly need and richly deserve improved health facilities in the town.

"This is a massively missed opportunity. However, I am delighted that the historic County Buildings will remain in the council's ownership and continue to be used in the service of the community."

Council Leader Peter Johnston commented: "The council had offered a very attractive deal to the health board in relation to the proposed relocation at County Buildings. But at the end of the day it is a decision for NHS Lothian.

"However, this is not to the detriment of West Lothian Council. Although this was part of the proposal to facilitate the move to the new civic centre we have alternative plans in place which will deliver the same objectives for us."

(GK/JM)