Campaigners want to preserve area’s greenspace

Campaigners from Save Woodhall and Faskine action group (SWAF) welcomed their battle being highlighted on the national stage, with a number attending the debate.

Group member Dr Ann Glen handed over the thousands of petition signatures for Coatbridge representative Fulton MacGregor to present to party colleagues Alex Neil MSP and Neil Gray MP, the Airdrie parliamentarians.

She told the Advertiser: “More than 30,000 people live around this area and there should be greenspace there, especially as there’s a growing realisation of its importance for exercise and emotional and physical wellbeing.

“There were very strong speeches in support of Woodhall and Faskine; Graham Simpson made strenous arguements with all the points we’ve been making, and Richard Leonard, who is a heavy hitter, also supported us.

“It’s a step in the right direction for our greenbelt to be discussed in Parliament, to help more notice be taken of it – it’s irreplaceable and we’ll be keeping at it, with events like walks to show people in Airdrie and Coatbridge what we have here.”

Prospective developers Orchard Brae say they aim to “complement and enhance the natural beauty of the site”– and that they intend to create a “country and heritage park” using half the existing green space.

Orchard Brae are aiming to create four parkland areas, respectively centred around Monkland Canal – including water activities – plus North Calder Park, woodland estate and a community park with a “centrepiece artwork” plus allotments.

Director Scott Gillespie said: “We want to realise the true potential of those wonderful existing assets. Currently, much of the site remains

Natural beauty Developers Orchard Brae say their plans will enhance the site and realise its true potential under-used and unmanaged, and we’re keen to work with communities to help maintain and harness what’s best about it. “Europark would open the...