Working with West Lothian businesses to keep streets clear

The council's Cleaner Communities team have recently adopted new service standards, which aims to take a holistic approach to improving the environment for everyone.

The wide-ranging measures include plans to address unsightly commercial waste bins on pavements and roads, as well as other environmental issues such as littering, fly tipping, graffiti, dog fouling and more. This will be done through a combination of education, enhanced infrastructure, community engagement and more stringent enforcement. 

Where issues are identified with commercial waste bins, council officers will engage with the businesses concerned and commercial waste operators to try and find a solution. 

Executive councillor for the environment and sustainability Tom Conn said: "We are looking to work with local businesses to help improve the environment we all share.

"Creating a cleaner and more welcoming environment for shoppers is in everyone's best interests, as it could help increase footfall, and the vibrancy and sustainability of our town and villages. 

"We recognise that there are challenges in some West Lothian towns especially, such as Linlithgow High Street and Bathgate town centre. Traders will have a key role to play in identifying and implementing long-term solutions that deliver the necessary improvements. 

"I would like to reassure local businesses that fines will continue to be used a last-resort only. The council already holds the powers to fine businesses for bins that cause an obstruction, but these will continue only be used when all other avenues to find a resolution have been exhausted.

"This is about finding positive solutions that improve our environments, not penalising businesses or generating income, and I sincerely hope that all local businesses positively engage with the process."