Council asks residents to shape future

A CONSULTATION is to be launched to find out where West Lothian residents believe their council’s priorities should lie.

Every household and business will be invited to participate in the process, which it is hoped will help shape the priorities and strategies of the local authority in the face of financial constraints.

The potential budget gap faced by the council could be in the region of £34 million for the five-year period from 2013-14 to 2017-18.

John McGinty, council leader, said: “There is the potential for a significant funding gap over the coming years. It is right and proper that everyone in West Lothian has an opportunity to give their opinion on what the priorities for the council should be.

“West Lothian Council has an excellent track record on managing change, partnership working, and creating integrated services which are benefiting customers and reducing costs.”

It is anticipated that the consultation will be launched next month.