Bo’ness town centre masterplan set to go before councillors on 19 March
Works to improve links between Bo’ness foreshore, the town centre and the Museum of Scottish Railways will be implemented if Councillors approve the proposed masterplan for the area.
The future vision of the town centre includes better walking and cycling routes, signage, lighting and wayfinding, as well environmental improvements such as artwork, landscaping and better bin storage.
The recommendations are all part of a report on the Bo’ness Town Centre Masterplan which goes to Council Executive on Thursday 19 March 2026.
If approved, the masterplan would set out a 15–20-year framework for how the town centre could evolve, building on Bo’ness’ heritage, its waterfront setting on the Forth and the town’s strong community.
The report highlights the priorities raised by local residents and businesses through multiple phases of engagement. It also recognises key attractions in the area, including the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway and Museum of Scottish Railways, the Town Hall, Kinneil Estate and the Hippodrome Cinema, as well as the town’s position on the John Muir Way.
The Masterplan recommends a number of projects to be considered for progression over the lifetime of the plan.
The proposals focus on making it easier to move between the foreshore, the town centre and the Museum of Scottish Railways, with better walking and cycling routes, signage, lighting and wayfinding.
They also include a summer trial of a temporary campsite or motorhome park near Corbiehall, environmental improvements such as artwork, landscaping and possible shopfront grants in the east of the town centre, and better bin storage and collection to reduce clutter and improve the area’s appearance.
Members will be asked to agree that officers begin work immediately on progressing the first of these priority projects, supported by the £500,000 Regeneration Fund allocation for Bo’ness Town Centre. This project will focus on improving connections between the foreshore and town centre.
Officers will also be asked to identify potential external funding sources to progress the other priority projects going forward.
If approved, officers will take the projects forward in consultation with the community, along with regular updates to councillors.
Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services, said:
This comprehensive masterplan sets out an exciting vision of how Bo’ness can maximise the many assets it has, such as a rich history and beautiful coastal setting.
“Most importantly it is shaped by the views of local people, businesses and community groups through a varied engagement process.
“The plan uses that feedback to set a clear long-term framework for how the town centre could develop successfully in the years ahead. The works could be funded by the £500,000 Regeneration Fund allocation for Bo’ness at the 2025/26 budget.
“It is now up to Councillors to decide if this is the best way forward for the Bo’ness Town Centre.