West Lothian Council has launched its “Your Council, Your Say” Budget Consultation for 2025, seeking public views on proposed service changes as it works to address a projected £23 million budget gap over the next two years. Among the options being explored are reductions to “non-statutory services”, which could include its Ranger Service.

While the survey highlights the extremely difficult financial circumstances facing local authorities after years of budget pressure, concerns have been raised about the justification provided for certain proposed savings, noting that key impacts, particularly relating to access, public health, and sustainable travel, may be greatly understated.

It is important to be aware that ranger services play an essential role in helping local authorities meet statutory duties. For example, under Section 13 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, the Council has a statutory duty to uphold access rights. West Lothian Council’s Ranger Service, like ranger services across Scotland, enables its council to meet statutory duties which support land managers and benefit the general public, whether resident or visiting.

ScotWays is submitting a response to the consultation, and encourages anyone who values outdoor access in West Lothian to also take part and share their views.

More information on the consultation, including how to participate, can be found here: West Lothian Budget Consultation.

The deadline for the consultation is Sunday, 16 November 2025.