West Lothian town centre car wash plan rejected after traffic fears

Plans to build a car wash in the West Lothian town centre of Bathgate have been rejected by councillors due to concerns over potential increased traffic on an already busy road. The proposed site, located just two minutes from the town centre near the Simpson Hotel on Whitburn Road, was deemed unsuitable by local member Willie Boyle. He highlighted that the area is already lined with fast food restaurants and is close to the Steelyard in the town centre, raising worries about the impact of additional traffic flow.

The initial application put forward by Karen Wales of Irvine in Ayrshire was overturned by planners in March. The proposal included the construction of a car wash, two storage containers, boundary fencing, and parking on the vacant site at 69 Whitburn, adjacent to the former Bathgate Social Work HQ. Despite arguments from the applicants that the location was ideal for redevelopment given the existing vehicular traffic, planners cited concerns about the visual impact on the street-scape and the lack of essential assessments such as flood risk and drainage.

Councillor Boyle expressed reservations about the potential traffic congestion that a car wash could bring to the area, especially during peak times. He also raised questions about the servicing of the three food units on the site if they were to become part of the development. These concerns resonated with the planning committee, leading to a decision to uphold the refusal of the application based on the lack of detailed information and assessments provided.

The rejected car wash plan has sparked discussions on the balance between commercial development and community impact in local areas. With the focus on preserving the visual appeal of the town centre and managing traffic flow effectively, the decision highlights the importance of thorough planning and consideration for the broader community when proposing new developments.

In summary, the rejection of the car wash plan in Bathgate underscores the significance of balancing commercial interests with community well-being in urban development projects. Local councillors have prioritised concerns about traffic impact and visual aesthetics in their decision-making process, reflecting a commitment to preserving the character and functionality of the town centre. This case serves as a reminder of the careful considerations required for sustainable development initiatives in urban areas.