Craigmillar “Healthpark” Project back on the agenda

New discussions are now underway to take forward proposals for a planned green network for the Craigmillar and Edinburgh Royal Infirmary area.

The ambitious proposals, which will have a strong health theme, include provision for extensive areas of new greenspace, natural habitats and woodland planting were developed by landscape architects, Ian White Associates. These plans echoe the principles established by planners in the Craigmillar Urban Design  Framework and Shawfair Local Development Plan to create a strategic green wedge to the South East of the City. This will stretch from Holyrood Park right out to Dalkeith Park beyond the City Bypass.

Last year, plans were scuppered by the “Credit Crunch” and the collapse of the local housing market which had reduced income available to finance the scheme. However partners are now cautiously optimistic that plans can be moved forward through a phased approach involving a range of organisations.

In particular, the project will have a health theme and will look to develop links with the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, the Biomedical Park development and the new Sick Children’s Hospital. The aim will be to use to the land close to the hospital more creatively to promote better health and well being through activities. Active travel will also be favoured with new cycle and walking routes being provided for the 30,000 people who will work around the site.

Particularly important will be the need to improve paths around the area to neighbouring communities to provide safe, alternative off-road links. Local people will also be encouraged to get involved in activities such as tree planting and healthy food production.

The project has already been identified as a key priority for Scottish Government and will be seen as an early opportunity  for delivery of the Central Scotland Green Network in the Lothians.

For further information, please contact:

Ian Whitehead
Edinburgh & Lothians Forest Habitat Network Officer
Tel: 0131 654 1933
Email: ian@elfhnp.org.uk