Under the contract, Maxi will remodel the existing two-storey historic Burgh Halls building and construct a two-storey steel-frame extension.

The works also include fit-out of the existing building and extension to provide a library, community halls, museum, CIS (Customer Information Service) office and local authority offices as well as external works including a new civic space.

Depute council leader Kirsteen Sullivan said: “This is a significant investment in the town and the new building better meets the needs of customers by hosting a wider variety of services under one roof as well as providing new spaces for the local community. Unfortunately the project has been delayed but the important thing is that work is now getting back underway and a fantastic new venue will be created for the town.

“We have high hopes for the new Centre in Whitburn which is really about creating a new, modern facility that delivers a range of services within the town centre.”

John Aitchison, Maxi Construction’s managing director, added: “We’re delighted to continue our association with West Lothian Council in the provision of partnership centres, this time for the benefit of the local community in Whitburn.”

The project team includes architect/principal designer Smith Scott Mullan, quantity surveyor Brownriggs, structural engineer Bayne Stevenson Associates and mechanical & electrical engineer EDP Consulting Engineers.