Proposed sale of Falkirk Old Burgh Buildings to go before Executive
Falkirk Council’s Executive will consider a report recommending the sale of the Old Burgh Buildings in Falkirk town centre at its meeting on 21 August 2025.
The property, which was declared surplus in 2020 and closed as part of the Council’s Strategic Property Review, is no longer in operational use. Services previously delivered from the site, including registrations and ceremonies, have been successfully relocated to Falkirk Library and Callendar House.
A public consultation on the proposed sale was carried out earlier this year in line with statutory requirements for common good properties. Of the 60 responses received, views were evenly split - with 43% in favour, 43% opposed and the remainder neutral.
Comments in support highlighted the cost of maintaining the empty building, while those opposed expressed concern over the potential loss of a historic asset. The building is Category C listed and located within a conservation area, meaning key features are protected and any future alterations would require appropriate consents.
If the Executive agrees, the building will be placed on the open market. Any sale would be subject to further approval, and proceeds would be returned to the Falkirk Common Good Fund. The report notes that the building is in poor condition overall, with over £300,000 in outstanding maintenance and annual running costs of nearly £60,000.
Paul Kettrick, Head of Investment, Assets and Climate said:
We understand that the Old Burgh Buildings are valued locally for its historic character.
“However, the property is no longer suitable for modern service delivery and requires significant investment to bring it up to standard.
"Selling the building allows us to reduce ongoing costs and ensure the asset is brought back into productive use, while protecting its key features through listed building safeguards.
"It is for Elected Members to decide at the Executive meeting later this month.
The proposed sale supports the Council’s property strategy, which aims to reduce costs, improve service delivery and make better use of core buildings. The closure of the Burgh Buildings is expected to contribute to a reduction in the Council’s carbon emissions, helping to support net zero goals.