Dunfermline Greenspace

Article written by: Laura Pearson

Dunfermline Greenspace is a community owned, membership-based organisation that supports local groups and projects to deliver the Dunfermline Greenspace 2030 strategy. Established in 2023, their focus is on enhancing greenspace and heritage sites, and working in ways to reduce climate and biodiversity impact.

I was pleased to meet for a cuppa and chat with David Evans Berry, Development Officer, who I first met when he came along to our community council meeting in January.

David started our conversation by telling me about his community asset mapping project. This involves finding out about community groups in Dunfermline that have a connection to local Greenspace, whether by maintaining it or by using it to meet, relax or play. This work has led him to community councils, tenants and residents associations, and has also introduced David to the active forces working to improve local parks, such as the Duloch in Bloom group.

It's not just the main parks that are of interest, they're also mapping smaller greenspaces and locations of community assets such as church cafes, community cafes, the community pantry and community gardens. Their goal is to create opportunities for groups to connect. If there are any community groups keen to know more they are invited to make contact.

The organisation is membership based, and David encourages local people to be members: “It's free and a great way to show your support. As a member you can use your voice to shape the future of the organisation and also your community Greenspaces. A growing membership is also helpful when looking for funding, as funders are more likely to listen to members' ideas and ambitions for their area. The more members, the louder the voice and it's a great way to know we are moving in the right direction for the community.”

There are exciting things lined up for the future, including volunteering opportunities and a visual map resource, both in development. By signing up for their newsletter, you can access information on these upcoming projects as well as lists of events, climate and gardening tips, funding opportunities and more.

Their next community event is Soup, Seeds And Sonas - planned for Saturday 15th March, 11am 3pm, Glasshouses, Pittencrieff Park. There will be stalls, seedball freebies and family activities. All are welcome and there is more info on their events webpage.

In the meantime, you can visit their YouTube channel @DunfermlineGreenspace and watch fascinating local drone footage.

www.dunfermlinegreenspace.org

Email: info@dunfermlinegreenspace.org