The application would see new retail facilities built in Wester Inch, alongside a range of energy-efficient new homes, on the site which has been allocated as a local neighbourhood centre by West Lothian Council.

The proposals have been specifically designed to facilitate the delivery of new retail outlets and meet local housing needs by providing a mixture of house types – from apartments and terraces to townhouses and detached homes.

The development will deliver on the long-term ambition of Wester Inch residents for new retail facilities in the area – helping to convey an authentic village centre feel and creating an estimated 68 local retail jobs. This is in addition to up to 144 local jobs that would be created during construction.

A major food retailer is finalising negotiations to lease the anchor food store and various others are being lined up to take on the smaller retail units, with a pharmacy one of the potential operators.

The revised proposals presented by Persimmon Homes have incorporated feedback from local residents and will include dedicated parking facilities at the new retail outlets to alleviate concerns about the capacity of the local road network. Persimmon has committed to ensuring the retail element is delivered as an early priority for the village centre site.

Donald Gunn, Persimmon East Scotland land director, said: “With our office based in Wester Inch, we have a strong connection with the area and are therefore pleased to be bringing forward revised plans that can finally deliver the council’s long-held ambition for a mixed-use development that creates an authentic village centre feel.

“The proposals include a variety of housing and retail facilities – which have long been desired by the local community. We’ve listened carefully to the views of local residents and ensured the new proposals incorporate their priorities and address their concerns – from prioritising the earliest possible delivery of the retail facilities, to providing dedicated parking.

“If the application is approved, we’ll continue working closely with local community to ensure this investment leaves a positive, lasting legacy in Wester Inch and across Bathgate.”