Proposals for ambitious low carbon development in West Lothian set to go on display

16/10/2020
Sketch of redevelopment proposal

THE public will be given the chance to view and shape proposals for an ambitious residential-led mixed-use development in West Lothian through a digital consultation event (image attached).

Situated at the current Clapperton poultry farm complex, located east of Livingston, Drumshoreland Garden Community will comprise a vibrant sustainable development.

The site, owned by Amber REI (Agriculture) Ltd, is a key component of the Scottish poultry supply chain but currently comprises ageing poultry sheds and surplus land. The value realised from this development will underpin more than £100 million package of investment back into the Scottish food and agriculture sector, through the company’s poultry supply chain operations across Scotland.

Around 1800 homes, including 25 per cent affordable homes (c. 450) are proposed for Drumshoreland Garden Community and will be brought forward by Elan Homes (Scotland) Ltd, a sister company of Amber REI. The low carbon community will also serve to address a significant historic housing land supply problem in West Lothian.

Original housing numbers have reduced to accommodate the need for more mixed-use elements which were raised during initial consultation with key local groups.

This development will create a high-quality mixed-use development set within a substantial new parkland setting, including 19.9 hectares of ancient woodland being given over to public access

Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, and following government guidance, a public consultation will be held online at www.drumshoreland.com. 

The live interactive event will take place on Thursday 22nd October from 12pm to 8pm. During this time representatives of the applicant will be available to respond to email/telephone queries.

Those wanting to comment on the proposals may do so via the website or by contacting drumshoreland@turley.co.uk, no later than 12 November 2020. 

A wide range of house types, sizes and tenures will be provided at the development, with the aim of providing genuine range and choice, establishing a mixed and diverse community from the outset.

In addition, a proportion of the site will be delivered for affordable housing at a minimum rate of 25 per cent. Also included will be employment, education and other community facilities.

The development at Drumshoreland will act as a catalyst to deliver an investment package in the Scottish agriculture and food sector in excess of £100 million. The initial plan is to improve, replace and expand elements of the Scottish poultry supply chain, strengthening this vital and significant rural employer.

This will include:

  • Redevelopment of existing feed mill at Edinburgh Airport and a new animal feed mill located on the Firth of Forth.
  • New sustainable farming space across West Lothian.

These new state-of-the-art low carbon facilities will create jobs both directly and indirectly through the supply chain. The delivery of these improved facilities will also serve to assist in improving standards in the sector while making a major contribution to the Scottish Government’s target of a net-zero society in terms of carbon emissions by 2045.

Commenting on the proposals, a spokesperson from Amber REI (Agriculture) said:

“We are delighted to be providing the local community with the opportunity to shape our proposals for this exciting mixed-use development at Clapperton through this consultation event.

“Drumshoreland Garden Community will not only deliver much-needed housing, including affordable housing, but provide employment, education and community facilities

“The delivery of this ambitious low carbon development will not only have an impact locally, but across Scotland through major investment in the Scottish agriculture and food sector.

“We would urge all those that can to participate in this consultation process and have their views heard.” 

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