Welcome to West Lothian
Image credit: Martin Heron
West Lothian is one of Scotland’s fastest growing areas, and combines vibrant new developments with locations steeped in Scottish history. West Lothian lies on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth on the west side of the capital city, Edinburgh.
Situated at the heart of Scotland’s central belt, the area is home to stunning rural scenery and traditional historic towns such Bathgate and Linlithgow, which have strong ties to famous figures such as Robert the Bruce and Mary, Queen of Scots.
It also includes the successful new town of Livingston, which celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2022, and counts dynamic companies such as Mitsubishi, Sky and Shin-Etsu Handotai among the key employers.
West Lothian was also at the centre of Scotland’s first oil boom, with historically many industries such as coal, iron, and shale oil mining operations were based in the area in the 19th and 20th centuries. These industries in particular created distinctive local histories and the iconic red-spoil heaps locally known as "bings" which have changed the landscapes throughout the council area. Known for its lively community spirit and active local music scene, the villages and towns of West Lothian are also home to many local art and drama organisations such as Firefly Arts. Venues such as Howden Park Centre and the Linlithgow Burgh Halls, also host a wide variety of exhibitions, classes, meeting spaces as well as many other creative and civic events.
West Lothian Council (WLC) will lead the ‘Remembering Together’ project on behalf of local volunteers who will act as the lead commissioning group who will be supported by the WLC Public Art Strategy Group and will involve further working with local arts organisations to inform to the development of this important public art project.
Programme Co-lead John Saich is the lead at the Remembering Together team for West Lothian and can be contacted on john.saich@greenspacescotland.org.uk
West Lothian Council - Community Arts will be the lead contact for the project and can be contacted on: arts@westlothian.gov.uk