Green Network Partnership for East Central Scotland
January 2010

The Edinburgh and Lothians Forest Habitat Network Partnership will be evolving over the coming months into an expanded Green Network partnership covering East Central Scotland.

The move follows a decision made by the project’s steering group to link more closely with the aspirations of the developing Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN).  The evolved partnership will take on the role of co-ordinating implementation and delivery of Central Scotland Green Network priorities in the East. It will also provide a forum for local authorities, stakeholders and local organisations to get involved in the delivery of green network activity.

In addition to delivering CSGN priorities, the expanded partnership will have a strong role in co-ordinating delivery of green infrastructure projects resulting from the Strategic Development Plan for Edinburgh and South East Scotland (SESplan). Priorities already flagged up include linking green network principles into development planning and public open space strategies. Other key projects will include a Pentland Hills Woodland Strategy, the South East Wedge Core Development Area  and enhancing Esk Valley Habitat networks.

Fife Council have already expressed an interest in working with the evolved partnership to deliver the mutual priorities arising though SESplan and the CSGN. Informal dialogue is also taking place with Scottish Borders Council to ensure a synergy of approach, particularly in relation to habitat networks.

The Partnership will be consequently be reviewing its image and objectives in line with these changes in the near future. This coincides with the planned relocation of the Partnership and the Edinburgh and Lothians Greenspace Trust to  new offices in Swanston.

For further information, please contact:

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