West Lothian Council’s Executive has been asked to approve a 30-year lease of Pumpherston Juniors’ ground at Drumshoreland Place to Livingston FC, creating a dedicated training facility for the club and enhancing facilities for one of the county’s oldest clubs.
Proposed Lease and Investment
Currently, Pumpherston Juniors Football Club (PJFC), founded in 1896, leases the football ground from the council under a Community Benefit ground lease running until 31 March 2041. The facilities include an 11-a-side grass pitch, a small synthetic sports court, changing rooms, and car parking. PJFC plays in the East of Scotland pyramid system.
The council has been approached jointly by PJFC and Livingston FC (LFC) with a proposal for PJFC to renounce its existing lease and for a new 30-year commercial lease to be granted to LFC. Under the proposal, LFC would invest significantly, replacing the grass pitch with a new 3G pitch, installing floodlights, and providing modern changing facilities. All works would be fully funded by LFC.
Benefits for Livingston FC
The new lease and investment would give LFC a dedicated training facility for its first team, women’s team, reserves, and nine affiliated clubs. LFC also faces an SFA requirement to convert the existing synthetic surface at Almondvale Stadium to grass ahead of the 2027 season. The proposed lease ensures access to training facilities during the installation, which is necessary for LFC to secure promotion back to the Scottish Premiership. LFC explored training facilities near Almondvale Stadium but found no viable solution due to physical constraints.
Pumpherston Juniors' Position
PJFC supports the proposal and would secure its tenure at Drumshoreland Place via a legally binding sub-lease with LFC, running concurrently with the 30-year lease. Under the sub-lease, PJFC would access facilities for home fixtures and training at no cost.
The lease would generate £10,000 per annum for the council. Council officers recommend approving the plan as being in the council’s best interests. The Executive will decide on Tuesday.
