Realm Construction is now on site for developer Sigma Capital on the first phase at Winchburgh near Broxbourn.

Current plans will see around 3,450 new homes and a mixture of business, shopping and community facilities built on the 900 acre site over the next fifteen years.

Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil said: “The Scottish Government has always argued that investing in our infrastructure is one of the primary ways to create jobs and stimulate growth in our economy.

“Last week, the CBI echoed that view highlighting the important role that the construction sector plays as a job-creator and key player in infrastructure renewal.

“As one of Scotland’s largest construction projects, this development in West Lothian illustrates how co-operation between the public and private sector can benefit the local community and stimulate the wider economy.

“I am also pleased that the project managers, Sigma Capital, including their first phase contractors, Realm Construction, have pledged to employ as many local people as possible as the development proceeds.”

Michael Levack, Chief Executive of the Scottish Building Federation, said: “The Scottish construction sector warmly welcomes this investment in West Lothian, which is set to create hundreds of much-needed jobs.

“Latest ONS figures published last week show that construction remains one of the hardest-hit areas of the economy, with output down 7.4  per cent. As a key driver of the Scottish economy, a recovery in construction is essential for sustainable economic growth.”