Oil Shale Discovery Space taking shape

In this article, West Lothian LEADER tell us about an innovating heritage project that has received LEADER support.

West Lothian LEADER have decided to focus this year on Heritage, History and Archaeology projects in alignment with Visit Scotland. Working with communities and business to bring forward projects that highlight and develop these themes, the Local Action Group awarded £175,000 towards an innovative and exciting project at Almond Valley Heritage Centre last November. With the build underway we went out to see what was happening.

The Oil Shale Discovery Space, Almond Valley Heritage Centre will be a unique addition to the centre's attractions and allow young people to learn more about West Lothian’s shale oil heritage through play by immersing them a lost industrial world of stills, tanks and fiery retorts that accurately reflect the buildings and structures of West Lothian's historic shale oil industry.

The Chair of West Lothian LEADER’s Local Action Group, Des Martin, said:

"The Discovery Space is a great project, bringing together heritage, education and tourism which are all key themes in our Local Development Strategy. We are keen to hear from organisations looking for grant assistance for projects that fit with our aims and along with community projects, we can provide grants to micro and small businesses, as well as farmers looking to diversify."

For more information on West Lothian LEADER visit their website, email leader@westlothian.gov.uk or call 01506 283 094.

More about LEADER across Scotland

You can find out about LEADER across Scotland in the LEADER section of our website, where you can also submit an Expression of Interest form if you have an idea for a project.

And watch our short film below to find out more about six inspiring projects that received funding in the LEADER 2007-2013 programme.