The development, which amounts to 225 houses, includes the delivery of 75 much-needed affordable homes. It is also proposed that affordable housing be prioritised for local people and housing for the disabled may also be delivered, responding to local demands.

In addition to this will be significant areas of open space and landscaping, provided for the benefit of the wider community. This could potentially be used for allotments, community orchards or for sporting activities, such as trim trails and children’s play areas.

A variety of new paths, cycle routes and links will be created, enhancing existing residential routes to the south of Bo’ness. Proposals are also being looked at to improve the safety of Crawfield Road and address current flooding issues.

The delivery of the site serves to address the current housing shortfall within the Falkirk Council area and it was previously identified in the council’s draft Local Development Plan as being suitable for residential use. It was regarded as ‘best for long-term growth of the town to address the housing requirements in the wider council area’.

Development will also see the population continue to grow steadily, supporting and maintaining existing local schools.

A Proposal of Application Notice (PAN), noting intent to lodge a planning application at a future date and describing the proposals, has been lodged with the council and shared with Bo’ness Community Council and local ward councillors.

Prior to their decision to launch these proposals, the developers organised two informal community events in December at the Recreation Centre and Tesco in Bo’ness. The events highlighted support, especially from younger couples, who expressed their desire for housing and in particular affordable housing.

A series of community engagement events will take place over the next few months prior to the submission of a formal planning application.

A spokesperson for the developers said: “There is a recognised shortfall in the number of homes being built locally over recent years, particularly when it comes to affordable housing. Some people may believe that many potential buyers would come from outwith the area, but recent sales by other housebuilders indicates that a majority of buyers are local and that there is strong local demand.

“Prior to lodging a planning application for the site we aim to engage extensively with the local community, ensuring that we are delivering a development that is appropriate to the housing requirements of Bo’ness.

“Our proposals will serve to enhance the local area and address some of the outstanding issues that exist around flooding and road safety.

“We look forward to engaging with the public and discussing these matters further.”