Site being set up to find reliable tradesmen

The West Lothian Trusted Traders scheme, similar to one running in East Lothian, will initially focus on home improvement firms.

Traders will have to pass a series of checks to qualify for membership, including assessments of their trading history.

Customers will be able to post feedback on the website, giving them the power to name and shame unreliable traders.

The annual membership fee for companies is expected to range from £100-200.

Ninety-three per cent of consumers and traders supported the concept during a public consultation phase carried out last year.

The scheme is due to go before the council’s executive for final approval this month.