Take care of city green spaces

When lockdown began, people in Liberton/Gilmerton came together with local businesses, community, church and voluntary groups, creating supply chains/systems to support vulnerable people and those shielding.

Providing home cooked meals, collecting/delivering essential household items, and organising outdoor fitness sessions to music to keep active and combat social isolation have been ongoing for four months.

With council buildings, schools, leisure and community centres closed, logistics/operations aspects were undertaken in church halls, social clubs, sports clubs, shipping containers, and places like Bridgend Farmhouse. The enthusiasm, effort and energy of those involved has been endless and inspiring.

With restrictions easing, people are enjoying Edinburgh’s parks, gardens and green spaces, visiting familiar, favourite places and discovering new favourites spaces and routes to walk, run or cycle. Reduced road traffic, improved air quality, and need for daily exercise, have encouraged people outdoors again and they’re sharing stories of birdsong and photos of wildlife on social media.

Edinburgh’s green spaces are popular and enjoyed in numerous ways – dog walking, gardening, running, cycling, walking, strolling, sitting, picnics, sports. They’re beneficial too - stimulating our senses and as venues for recreation, exercise, relaxation, and social interaction.

Less popular sadly, are the debris, litter and dog poo some people selfishly leave behind. We owe it to ourselves, our growing city, and those who come after us to respect, protect and to take best care of Edinburgh’s green spaces.

A shared citywide commitment to responsible litter disposal, and dog ownership would help make real that aspiration.