Viewpark Conservation Group

The overall goal of the Viewpark Conservation Group is to improve the quality of life for the people of Viewpark and neighbouring areas, through an enhanced natural environment.

• Protect and presere the North Calder Water river valley and floodplain at Bankhead Farm
• Prevent further development in Grove Wood to protect the flood plain and maintain access to the Roman Bridge
• Maintain the Core Path network and improve the network of paths through the Douglas Support Estate

What we hope to achieve

We know that local people feel strongly about pursuing community ownership of ‘Our Glen’. During an extensive community consultation process, we asked local residents what difference this project would make to the community to ensure that our planned outcomes address locally defined needs. From the information gathered, we know that community ownership will boost community confidence.

More families will get and about doing things together. In general, more children and young people would spend time outdoors, taking them ‘back to basics’. We have involved young people in the design and development of this project and we will continue to ensure that they have a voice with regards to their views on the ongoing work of the Project. More local people will have access to opportunities to participate in activities that are free or low cost.

Showcasing ‘Our Glen’ will bring visitors who may/will pay for activities which will mean a subsidy for local people. Involving local skilled volunteers and trades where possible in the development of the Glen will encourage local buy in and a sense of ownership and achievement. Involving the community will generate more of a sense of ownership and belonging. This is reflected particularly well in the comments received during the consultation.

We hope through this Project to dispel feelings that the community has been left behind compared with other communities in terms of services and investment. We understand that the levels of deprivation in Viewpark including Tannochside and Birkenshaw will lead our business plan to deliver services and activities that will impact on residents in these areas and who face different challenges, particularly in terms of equality of opportunities through poverty and poor education levels and health and wellbeing.