Bo’ness town centre masterplan to go before councillors
Works to improve links between Bo’ness foreshore, the town centre and the Museum of Scottish Railways will be implemented if councillors approve a proposed masterplan for the town.
A report on the Bo’ness Town Centre Masterplan will go before members of Falkirk Council’s Executive on Thursday, March 19.
If approved, the masterplan would set out a 15-20 year framework for the how town centre could evolve, building on Bo’ness’ heritage, its waterfront setting on the Forth and the town’s strong community.
The future vision of the town centre includes better walking and cycling routes, signage, lighting and wayfinding, as well as environmental improvements such as artwork, landscaping and better bin storage.
The report highlights the priorities raised by residents and businesses through multiple phases of engagement.
It also recognised key attractions in the area including the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway and Museum of Scottish Railways, the Town Hall, Kinneil Estate and the Hippodrome, as well as the town’s position on the John Muir Way.
The masterplan recommends a number of projects to be considered for progression over the lifetime of the plan.
The proposals focus on making it easier to move between the foreshore, town centre and Museum of Scottish Railways with better walking and cycling routes, signage, lighting and wayfinding.
They also include a summer trial of a temporary campsite or motorhome park near Corbiehall; environmental improvements such as artwork, landscaping and possible shopfront grants in the east of the town centre and better bin storage and collection to reduce clutter and improve the area’s appearance.
At their meeting next week councillors will be asked to agree that officers begin work immediately on progressing the first of the priority projects, supported by the £500,000 Regeneration Fund allocation for Bo’ness town centre, focusing on improving connections between the foreshore and town centre.
Officers will also be asked to identify potential external funding sources to progress the other priority projects going forward.
Malcolm Bennie, Falkirk Council’s director of place services, said: “This comprehensive masterplan sets out an exciting vision of how Bo’ness can maximise the many assets it has, such as a rich history and beautiful coastal setting.
"Most importantly it is shaped by the views of local people, businesses and community groups through a varied engagement process.
"The plan uses that feedback to set a clear long-term framework for how the town centre could develop successfully in the years ahead.
"The works could be funded by the £500,000 Regeneration Fund allocation for Bo’ness at the 2025/26 budget.
"It is now up to councillors to decide if this is the best way forward for the Bo’ness town centre.”
If the masterplan is approved, council officers will take the projects forward in consultation with the community, along with regular updates to councillors.