The total area of parks keeps growing - amounting to some 40 per cent of the city’s green space – more than any other Scottish city – and will continue to grow in the next decade
Green Edinburgh is getting bigger and better…
As Edinburgh grows you may think that the city’s green spaces are being built on.
But the opposite is the case. In fact the total area of parks has grown significantly in the past few years amounting to some 40 per cent of the city’s green space – more than any other Scottish city – and will continue to grow in the next decade.
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The largest single green space acquisition by the Council in more than a century, Craigmillar Castle Park was designated a Jubilee Park in 2003. More than 170 acres are being developed for public recreation.
Muirhouse Park and Ferniehill Park are two smaller acquisitions, but no less significant to the local communities they serve.
The much loved Ferry Glen in South Queensferry was bought by the Council in 2004 from private hands, rescuing it from many years of neglect.
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Now we’re working with local people and the Edinburgh Green Belt Trust to improve and restore the area to its natural glory.
The forthcoming redevelopment of Craigmillar and the South-East Wedge of the city will see large areas of green space secured for public enjoyment.
About 217 acres of farmland will be transformed into a network of public parks, woodlands and gardens with footpaths and cycleways, eventually forming a link from Holyrood Park to the city boundary.
Over time these areas will mature into places valued by communities, but the long-term benefits of securing these swathes of green space are immeasurable.
Edinburgh’s parks make it a greener and healthier city for residents and visitors.
Working with partners is key to the aims of the Parks service. The woodlands of the city, including Corstorphine Hill and Colinton Dell, have benefited from significant funding from the Forestry Commission.
The Cockburn Association and Friends of Parks groups are other key partners.
Earlier this year, the Council earmarked £5.6 million across 2006-08 for improving parks and gardens, play areas, sports pitches and pavilions and it continues to work with communities, partner organisations and funders to enhance the green heritage of Edinburgh.