The new station has been part of the masterplan for the Winchburgh Core Development Area for some time, but securing funding has remained a hurdle. While a funding source is still to be finalised, a potential solution has been identified.
To move the project forward, Winchburgh Developments Ltd (WDL), the lead developer for the Winchburgh expansion, has agreed to act as the project's promoter. In Scotland, any significant public infrastructure project requires a promoter to be accountable for the project budget and ensure it stays on track. WDL is well-positioned for this role, as they are responsible for much of the development's infrastructure and own the land where the station would be built.
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West Lothian Council has been invited by WDL to co-promote the project. The council's primary role would be to oversee the application for funding from the City Region Deal or other identified sources. A project steering group, comprised of representatives from Transport Scotland, National Rail, the Edinburgh & South East Scotland City Region Deal, WDL, and West Lothian Council, has already been established to oversee progress on the station's delivery.
A report by the council's Head of Planning, Economic Development and Regeneration recommends that councillors approve the council's co-promoter role for a limited period until a funding application is submitted. All stakeholders remain committed to bringing the Winchburgh railway station to fruition.
The council's Executive Committee will discuss the report next week, and further updates are expected at that time. More information on the proposal can be found in the committee papers available on the West Lothian Council website.
