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Turnpike roads were introduced into Scotland, in Midlothian, in 1713, based on the English system which had begun to develop after the first Turnpike Act there had been passed in 1663. The roads were named after the horizontal bars across the roads which were raised to allow access once the appropriate toll had been paid. With some exceptions, roads were commonly constructed on a local or county basis and promoted in Parliament by private bills, often with the support of eminent men who saw the development of these roads as a contribution to the national good. Around 350 private acts were passed in Scotland in the century from 1750 until 1844. The turnpike roads were technically superior and better planned than the older system of roads constructed by statute labour (or via the money raised in lieu.) Economically they were also important, because, in addition to the vested interest of the money raised at the tolls, the roads reduced the time and cost of travel to the market-place, particularly from country to town.
The Linlithgow turnpike road was authorised by Act of Parliament in 1809 and was empowered to run from Carlowrie Bridge near Kirkliston to Linlithgow Bridge. Its initial promoters included Henry Ferrier of Belsyd, Alexander Learmonth of Crossflatts and James John Cadell of Grange. Finance for the road was secured from the Falkirk Banking Company and other tenders. Other records of the trustees should be held by West Lothian District Library Headquarters, 66 Marjoribanks Street, Bathgate. |