The West Lothian site, which is the size of 100 football pitches and includes 15 listed buildings, has lain empty for 14 years.

In its heyday an entire village complex was supported by a working farm, church, shop and bakery.

According to reports, in The Herald, NHS Lothian has submitted a planning application for 891 homes, 800 new build and 91 conversions, and a primary school. An earlier bid to covert the site into new homes fell flat following the economic downturn, but it appears that Allanwater Homes have kick-started the process.

The company would not comment on the plans but confirmed that discussions were ongoing with NHS Lothian.

NHS Lothian, appointed property advisers Justin Lamb Associates to revive interest ahead of a planning decision through West Lothian Council.

Justin Lamb told The Herald, Bangour is “probably the best opportunity in Scotland to deliver a new village in a mature landscape.”