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.


"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)