It’s a doc’s life for Ian

Dec 4 2008 by Sandra Walls, Hamilton Advertiser

WELL-KNOWN Lanarkshire businessman Ian Livingstone has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

He received the award at the university’s graduation ceremony held at the Town House, Hamilton.

Since 1992, Mr Livingstone has been chairman of New Lanarkshire Ltd., the organisation that promotes civic pride in the county.

As chairman of Lanarkshire Health Board from 1993 to 2002, he led the planning, construction and completion of two new district general hospitals at Wishaw and East Kilbride, both of which opened in 2001.

And from 1991 to 2000 Mr Livingston was chairman of Scottish Enterprise Lanarkshire (formerly Lanarkshire Development Agency).

The organisation was charged with the regeneration of the Lanarkshire economy, after the demise of the steel industry.

He attended Hamilton Academy from 1943 to 1956, and is a qualified solicitor.

A University of the West of Scotland spokesman said: “We were delighted to award Ian Livingstone with an honorary doctorate.

“He has made a significant contribution to the development of Lanarkshire and is a fitting recipient of this honour.”

He attended the graduation ceremony alongside other graduates from all over Lanarkshire at Hamilton Town House.