After a few weeks working on our governance and policies, we were able to spend time on the exciting stuff…our projects and plans. A quick update:
Share and Repair Cafe.
We have been looking at potential venues, costing up tools and equipment and working on our funding application. Unfortunately, due to a hitch with our bank account application, we won’t make the deadline for the first round of applications on 31st March, but will have to wait for the next round in June. This will lead to a bit of a delay in us running our first cafe, but hopefully we will get ourselves sorted and be ready to go once the funding is in.
Rewilding/ More Nature Everywhere
We are currently in the very early stages of exploring the potential for a small rewilding project in the local area. This would be an exciting opportunity to bring more biodiversity back to the Gryffe Valley. We hope this will be popular with all the nature lovers out there.
Sustainable Travel
Many of you will be aware that SPT recently announced long term plans to franchise buses across Strathclyde. They anticipate this will take 5 -7 years and in the meantime they intend to introduce Bus Service Improvement Partnerships. It is good that SPT have recognised that the status quo is unacceptable, however, there are concerns about the timing and ambition of these plans. A consultation period is due to take place from April and it is important that the community share our views. A comprehensive and integrated public transport service will be key to getting us to net zero. We shall continue to link with Better Buses for Strathclyde/Renfrewshire to support the consultation process.
Active Travel
We are currently developing plans to look at how we can promote and encourage active travel within the Gryffe Valley. More details to follow.
Community Energy
We are still in the early stages of looking at options to achieve this long term goal, but I am feeling very inspired after attending a webinar last week on “Developing a Successful Community Energy Project”. It is empowering (no pun intended) to see the range of projects there are across Scotland…both large and small. I have also linked with our regional Local Energy Advisor from Local Energy Scotland to let her know our aspirations.
Food Growing/Food Security
Following a previous post some interest has been expressed from the community with regards to taking this forward, in particular trying to identify some land for a community garden and/or allotments. Houston Community Council have also been contacted with a similar request and so this is a good opportunity to work in partnership with them to try to take this forward.
As you can see, we have lots of plans and potential projects. We are now setting up some working groups to help make these plans a reality and Create a Sustainable Gryffe. We would welcome your support, and so if you would like to get involved in our activities, please email us at casgryffe@gmail.com
