MP welcomes appointment of West Lothian Pride in Place Chair
Livingston constituency MP Gregor Poynton has welcomed the appointment of Eric Lumsden as independent Chair of the new Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board for Blackburn, Fauldhouse and Whitburn.
The appointment was approved by West Lothian Council Executive as part of the next stage of the UK Labour Government-backed Pride in Place programme, which will see up to £20 million invested across the three communities over the next decade.
The Neighbourhood Board will bring together local residents, elected representatives and community stakeholders to help shape how the funding is allocated and ensure investment reflects local priorities.
Mr Lumsden, who was born in Whitburn and educated at Whitburn Academy, has longstanding professional and personal connections to the area and was selected following an open recruitment process.
Gregor Poynton MP said:
“I welcome the appointment of Eric Lumsden as independent Chair of the Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board for Blackburn, Fauldhouse and Whitburn.
“This is a major opportunity to secure long-term investment and real change for West Lothian communities that have too often felt overlooked. Over the next decade, more than £20 million will be invested locally, and it is important that local people are at the heart of shaping how that funding is spent.
“Eric brings strong local knowledge, extensive experience and deep roots in these communities. His background and understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Blackburn, Fauldhouse and Whitburn make him well placed to help guide this work.
“I look forward to working constructively with Eric, Kirsteen Sullivan MP, local residents, Councillors, MSPs and community organisations to make sure this funding delivers visible improvements, stronger town centres, better community facilities and renewed pride in our communities.”
The Pride in Place programme is intended to support long-term regeneration and community renewal, with projects expected to focus on local priorities identified through community engagement and consultation.