Lanthorn roof repairs approved by council

The Lanthorn Centre closed in April and is anticipated to remain shut for a period of two years after significant structural issues were identified within the roof structure of the building.

The council will remove and replace the existing roof deck at The Lanthorn Centre and Chapel Annexe.

Works are proposed to start on site in early spring 2022 and works will last approximately fourteen months. It is hoped that the project will be complete by May 2023.

A period of remobilisation will then be carried out before the building can fully reopen in the summer of 2023.

Extensive engagement has been undertaken by council officers, the Lanthorn Centre Education Association and the Trustees to ensure that all user groups and the public are aware of the circumstances around the closure of the building.

Leader of West Lothian Council Lawrence Fitzpatrick said: "I'd like to thank the efforts of staff, Trustees and the LCEA who have helped ensure that the majority of groups who used The Lanthorn Centre have now found alternative, suitable accommodation. Work will continue to ensure that the council works closely with local groups and provides necessary updates throughout the construction and remobilisation phase.

"We would obviously not have chosen to find ourselves in this position. This is a significant amount of money being spent on the repair of the roof but we can assure building users and local people that we are investing in The Lanthorn Centre to ensure it continues to be a fantastic local community facility."