Decision-makers of the future learn about planning process

Pupils from Glenwood High School have been working with Planning Aid Scotland to investigate their local area.

The Bridging the Gap project was launched so pupils could learn about how their town was planned and developed.

With funding from the Scottish Government, Planning Aid Scotland (PAS) is working in partnership with Fife Council to enable school pupils to develop creative ideas that will improve local areas.

Councillor Fiona Grant, convener of Glenrothes Area Committee, said: “Glenwood High School is one of only four schools in Scotland where the Bridging the Gap project is being piloted. It’s a great opportunity for pupils to get an insight into planning and the role it plays in shaping where we live and work. The project involves sixth-year pupils mentoring younger pupils and finding out how to influence the environment they will live in the future.”

The Bridging the Gap project comes hard on the heels of the Glenrothes Charette which involved the whole community. The ideas and information gathered have contributed to regeneration plans for the area.

“We have worked with PAS on the Glenrothes Charrette which brings a wide variety of people together and uses town planning techniques to solve problems and create a shared vision for the future,” added Mrs Grant.

PAS chief executive Petra Biberbach said: “The Bridging the Gap project in Glenrothes is the beginning of an exciting programme of workshops with local young people across Scotland. Young people have a very different view of our places and this project will help us all make better places.”