The plans for the regeneration of Bo'ness Foreshore were recently dealt a blow due to the continuing economic downturn, due in some measure, to the problems being experienced in the USA sub-prime mortgage market.

ING, the preferred developer, has indicated that the existing proposals, are no longer a viable option and for a successful long-term outcome it is necessary to change the order of proposed works.

Sunday 23 September was Open Doors Day throughout Bo'ness.

The Hippodrome, currently undergoing major refurbishment was one of the buildings open to the public although still a 'building site'.

Again, we're not alone. No, extra-terrestrial life has not been found yet!

I'm talking about 'consultation' the buzzword of both the national executive and our local councils or more accurately the lack of it.

Grangemouth La Porte Precinct

In the Falkirk Herald (01/02/07) it was reported that "the public consultation on Grangemouth's £22 million town centre regeneration came to an angry conclusion this week".

Town Centre Closures

Bo'ness is not alone when it comes to closures in the High Street.

Most small towns experience the same problems when the big boys come to 'play'.

Only last week in the Bo'ness Journal (Linlithgow Gazette) it was announced that the long-established toy shop Fun 'n' Games is set to shut its doors for good once all remaining stock has been sold.

That is expected to take place in April or May — and will bring the curtain down on the family-owned shop's 16-year stint in the town.