ELFHNP supports Central Scotland Green Network Proposals
2 June 2009

ELFHNP is working with partner organisations across Central Scotland to develop the concept of a Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN). The Green Network is proposed in the Draft National Planning Framework (NPF) 2. It is envisaged that the CSGN will achieve a step change in environmental quality and will make Scotland a more attractive place to live and do business.

The CSGN will build up existing initiatives across the Central Belt, such as the Central Scotland Forest and the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network, to raise the profile of greenspace improvements and increase the availability and quality of greenspace throughout the region. Through this it is hoped to deliver a more attractive physical environment which encourage sustainable economic development through inward investment.

The work of ELFHNP is extremely relevant in terms of the development of the CSGN in the East of Scotland. The forest habitat networks being developed by ELFHNP will provide a multi-functional resource, providing health, active travel, and climate change mitigation.

Ian whitehead, the ELFHNP officer explained, “We are happy to work with other partners across Central Scotland to realise the benefits of the Central Scotland Green Network. The will be great benefits achieved through adopting a strategic approach which promotes cross boundary working. It is particularly important that  the networks we are developing in the Lothians, interface with programmes being developed in other areas. This initiative is therefore to be welcomed”.

The concept of the network is still however in the early stages of development. Details which have still to be worked up include the geographical boundaries, working remit and structure of the CSGN. A working group of partner organisations including ELFHNP is currently looking at these issues. If the NPF 2 gets the go ahead from the Scottish Parliament this summer, it is likely that development of the CSGN will start to move ahead more rapidly.

To find out further information about the CSGN please contact ian@elfhnp.org.uk