West Lothian Council is to take the unusual step of pursuing a compulsory purchase order to secure a new train station at Blackridge on the Bathgate to Airdrie line.

The Council Executive agreed to submit the application to the Scottish Government after negotiations failed to be reached for the land on the south side of the line.

Council Leader Peter Johnston said: "It is unfortunate that West Lothian Council has had to take this action as it is very much the last resort.

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"A deal with the landowner has been agreed in principle but not signed off, and though negotiation is still our preferred option as this land on the south of the railway is needed to complete the construction of the station, we must act now to deliver the station for the community."

The council is committed to the Bathgate/Airdrie link and a new station for Blackridge. It is anticipated that the construction of the Blackridge Station will bring considerable economic and social benefits to the community and western area of West Lothian.

As negotiations stalled the council's only option is to resort to the use of compulsory purchase powers to ensure the vital project does progress.

(GK/BMcc)