Falkirk Council: Linlithgow company bid over £500k for former education offices

The building that was used until recently as a base by Falkirk Council’s children’s services will be sold for £525,000 if councillors agree.

A proposal to dispose of Sealock House in Grangemouth to Hunters of Linlithgow will be put to members of Falkirk Council’s executive next Tuesday.

In addition to the money from the sale, the report to councillors says it will save running costs of £103,260 which will contribute to its Strategic Property Review savings target.

The property was marketed twice before receiving a satisfactory offer from West Lothian-based Hunters of Linlithgow, which offers vehicle servicing and other auto repair work. As well their main base at Mill Road Industrial Estate in Linlithgow, the family firm also has a bodyshop at Bankside in Falkirk.

The report to members says that the offer is subject to gaining planning permission but it is hoped that the sale will allow the business to expand, creating employment locally.

The council says that the sale will reduce the council’s carbon footprint by 36 tonnes of CO2e, based on the 2021/22 electricity consumption.

A report going to members notes that the current electric heating and air conditioning system is “likely to require a significant overhaul or replacement” and they hope the new owners will replace it with a system that has a lower carbon footprint.

All staff moved from the Inchyra Road base to refurbished offices at Falkirk Stadium earlier this year.