West Lothian Foodbank is moving to larger premises as demand for its services grows.
The foodbank will move from its current home in Livingston where its leases three properties at Heron Square, Deans Industrial Estate. It approached the council seeking assistance to find alternative premises to support their requirement for additional floorspace to enable its expansion to meet current and future demand.
At its monthly meeting West Lothian Council’s Executive approved a new lease at a commercial property in Bathgate after hearing details from Estates Manager, Paul Kettrick.
A report to the committee said: “The premises at 36A Inchmuir Road, Bathgate were identified by the foodbank as being potentially suitable to fulfil their current and future requirements. Officers have been working with the foodbank over the past few months to facilitate and negotiate a lease of the property.
“The property provides a mix of accommodation that will meet both the operational and administrative needs of the foodbank. The property benefits from large vehicular access, a significant storage area, offices and yard space which make it ideal for the foodbank’s requirements.”
The report concluded: “The proposed lease to the foodbank will enable them to modernise their operations and provide suitable accommodation to meet both current and future demands.
“It is considered in the council’s best interest to enable the lease agreement with the foodbank as it will also aid the council’s wider priorities and outcomes in relation to supporting the Third Sector.”
Leader of West Lothian Council Lawrence Fitzpatrick said: “We are delighted to assist West Lothian Foodbank in securing a new fit for purpose base for their essential operations particularly during the pandemic and increasing demand for their services . West Lothian Council fully supports their admirable work in providing for those in need. Council Executive has approved the terms of the lease to allow West Lothian Foodbank to take on the property at Inchmuir Road. Council officers will continue to work with them to finalise this process.”
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