Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council April 2023 Newsletter

1.     Friends of the Grassie

2.     HUB@531 Craft Club

==****====

1.     Friends of the Grassie

One of Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council’s focus areas is the safeguarding and improvement of our many wonderful greenspaces.  Bloomiehall Park has been awarded a Green Flag, and there have been various improvements to the Water of Leith walkway, but there has been very limited investment in Baberton Mains.

As a Community Council it was very important to us that we, as a small group, did not decide what was needed to improve the greenspaces in Baberton.  But that, instead, the ideas and enthusiasm would come from those who used the spaces most.  The most obvious place to start was the field in the centre of Baberton Mains, known to some as the Grassie.

In discussions, our local Councillors advised of the benefits of formalising such involvement through a "Friends of ..." group which could inform decisions around the space, including any improvements; fundraise for them, and could even in time take ownership of the space.

We engaged through various media to determine interest in forming such a group and to understand what improvements, if any, might be made to the Grassie.  We've had a couple of very positive meetings, and many views were expressed at the second meeting, which took place at The Grassie on 20^th March with around 25 residents present.  After discussion a show of hands was in favour of more waste bins, particularly to the north end; investigations into drainage problems / mud / how slippery it becomes in winter; and planting flowers  - whether in planters around the path or in the grass banks.  Other suggestions included improved lighting; fruit trees similar to the recent planting in Campbell Park by Friends of Campbell Park, and benches at path level. 

At the March CC meeting, attended by Baberton Mains residents, further discussions raised concerns regarding encouraging antisocial behaviour.  However, overall it was felt that establishing a Friends of The Grassie group and making small improvements would make the area more attractive and accessible.  The Friends would also have a stronger voice in any landowner or City Council plans in the future (to be clear JGBMCC is not aware of any such plans).

If you would be interested in joining the Friends, please email secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk or message via our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/junipergreencouncil/

==****====

2.     HUB@531 Craft Club

The HUB@531 is thinking of setting up a monthly 'Craft Club', for keen crafters, and we are working on plans with members of the WI. The first activity is 'Glass Painting' on Wednesday 3^rd May at 7pm and Thursday 4^th May at 1.30pm – bring your own glass jar to paint.  The next will be 'Crochet' in early June, but we are also looking for suggestions for other activities, and volunteers to lead some other monthly activities. 

Suggestions, ideas, offers to help to: hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com. We would love to know what crafts you would like to try. 

1.       GRANTED PLANNING APPLICATIONS (1)

23/00991/TCO - Woodland to South of 527 Lanark Road  - Sycamore - remove 1 large limb and 2 smaller branches at land north of 1 Baberton Loan

2.       PLANNING APPLICATIONS MADE (2)

23/01099/FUL - 499 Lanark Road - New solar panels to rear of property. New fence and gate to side of property set back from front of house.  Comments by 14/04/23

23/01107/FUL - 511 Lanark Road - Demolition of old extension. Addition of french windows and timber cladding.  Comments by 14/04/23

3.       TREE REMOVAL (0)

4.       REFUSED APPLICTIONS (0)

5.       CERTIFICATE OF LAWFULNESS PROPOSED (0)

6.       STILL AWAITING DECISIONS (2)

23/00820/FUL - 7 Lucas Gardens - Installation of photovoltaic panels on southeast roof pitch – comments by 07/04/23

22/04501/FUL – 62 Belmont Road – Change of Use to annex to allow mixed use of residential and short term let – awaiting assessment

7.       APPEAL

OUTWITH JGBMCC AREA THAT IS WORTH NOTING IN OUR AREA

22/06181/PND – Wester Hailes Education Centre (WHEC)

Prior notification for demolition of school buildings only

22/06013/PAN – Wester Hailes High School

A proposal of Planning Application Notice has been submitted for a future project to deliver a new 800 pupil high school building.  It aims to consolidate the educational facilities into one building, allowing for community use whilst retaining shared facilities in the existing community centre building.  The details can be seen in the planning application portal Planning applications – The City of Edinburgh Council using the above PAN reference number.  PRE APPLICATION CONSULTATION APPROVED 16/12/22 – earliest date for planning application 24/02/23

21/04443/FUL – Currie High School – Construction of a new ultra low energy community high school, swimming pool and sports facilities plus associated landscaping and parking; demolition of existing school building – application validated 01/09/21

21/03334/PAN – Appeal APP 230 2351 – Land North of Newmills Road, Balerno & Currie area

Mix use development including houses (Class 9), flats (Sui Generis) care home (Class 8), retail (Class 1), commercial (Classes 2, 3 and sui generis), business (Class 4), education and community facilities (Class 10), mobility hub, open space and landscaping, access and all associated infrastructure – Pre application consultation approved 25/06/21 – APPEAL REJECTED

Agenda

1. 1. Apologies 

2. 2. Minutes of last meeting and actions arising 

3. 3. Community Council Focus for 2023 

1. a. SW Communities Corridor Project 

2. b. Greenspaces inc. Friends of Grassie next steps (@ 8.15pm)

3. c. Bin provision and collection 

4. d. Traffic

4. 4. Councillors' Corner

5. 5. Reports and Recent Meetings 

1. a. Secretary 

2. b. Treasurer 

3. c. Local Planning Matters 

4. d. School 

6. 6. AOCB 
   

Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council October 2022 Newsletter

1.            Pentlands Book Festival, 9 - 22 November 2022

2.            Pentlands Community Space: Free events at the Hub at 531

3.            Friends of the Grassie?

4.            Double Yellow Lines

5.            Poppy Appeal: 26 October to 11 November 2022

==****====

1.            Pentlands Book Festival, 9 - 22 November 2022

Planning is complete and we are ready to release the programme and issue tickets.  Full details of each event are on the Pentlands Book Festival website http://www.pentlandsbookfestival.org/.  Flyers listing the programme with venues, dates, and times will be available shortly in local libraries and businesses.  Tickets are being released on Tuesday 11 October and available at the links below, or via the website, or at Currie and Colinton Libraries.  All tickets for all events are free, although we do welcome small donations - £2 per person in cash at the event is suggested (but not required).

Expect controversy, crime and cracking stories and, for those of a quieter disposition, there’ll be poetry, local history, local authors and two exciting archive visits.  Discover how to recover from illness or even write your own books.  It’s all brought to you by a team of volunteers and the wonderful Colinton and Currie libraries.

Talking of wonderful: we are looking for a wonderful person or two who would like to learn the business of sound engineering for events like these.  You’d need some evenings to spare in November and enough brain and brawn to help to set up and manage technical equipment under supervision.  To find out more about this great opportunity email russell.salton@outlook.com 

We hope that you will find something of interest in this year’s PBF and look forward to seeing you again.

Ticketed events:

Peter Sawkins, “Peter’s Baking Party”:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/peters-baking-party-tickets-432750898587

Lesley Riddoch, “McSmorgasbord”:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mcsmorgasbord-tickets-418053849317

Crime Writers’ Panel, “Three Chairs for Crime”:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/three-chairs-for-crime-tickets-418745237277

Central Library, “Treasure your History”, 2pm start:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/treasure-your-history-central-library-edinburgh-and-scottish-collection-tickets-420492222557

Central Library, “Treasure your History”, 3pm start:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/treasure-your-history-central-library-edinburgh-and-scottish-collection-tickets-420496675877

Mary Paulson-Ellis, “Heir Piece”:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/heir-piece-tickets-419765619267

Debut Authors’ Panel:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/debut-authors-panel-tickets-419769972287

Local Authors’ Panel:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-authors-panel-tickets-419776451667

Rosemary Goring, “Location, Location, Location: where Mary Queen of Scots made history”:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/location-location-location-where-mary-queen-of-scots-made-history-tickets-420501139227

Gavin Francis, “Your Good Health”:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/your-good-health-tickets-418176305587

No tickets on Eventbrite but available by calling Liz Beevers on 0131 453 4115:

Liz Beevers, “Our Mills: the Story and Storyteller”: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/our-mills-the-story-and-storyteller-tickets-418085634387

Heriot-Watt University Archive, “The Tweedie Collection”:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-tweedie-collection-a-remarkable-archive-of-our-local-area-tickets-420477588787

And no tickets required for this event, but feel free to drop in any time between 2 and 4pm:

Local Authors’ Panel:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-authors-panel-tickets-419776451667

Keep an eye on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Pentlands-Book-Festival-903223373082029  or Twitter https://twitter.com/PentBookFest or website http://www.pentlandsbookfestival.org/.

==****====

2.            Pentlands Community Space: Free events at the Hub at 531

Pentlands Community Space (PCS) is delighted to be organising the first events at the Hub@531 Lanark Road as preparations continue in the new community hub.  These events - guided Nordic walking groups, stress management workshops, and mindful yoga - are free thanks to a small grant won by the charity.

NORDIC WALKING: Taster and learning the technique of this total-body version of walking, using special poles to give extra support and improve arm and leg toning.  These social walking experiences, guided by Trevor, a local Nordic walking leader, are done at a gentle pace and walking poles are provided.  There is a maximum of 10 spaces on each one-hour session.  Nordic walking is a fantastic way to get out in the fresh air.

The sessions will start from the Hub@531 Lanark Road on the following dates and times:

Tuesday 11th October at 5.15 pm

Saturday 15th October at 12.00 pm

Thursday 20th October at 1.30 pm

Monday 24th October at 10.30am (only for those who have attended any of the previous sessions)

STRESS MANAGEMENT: PCS is running two mental health sessions entitled “Stress: What is it, why do I have it and how do I get rid of it?” led by Dr Stephen Smith, D Clin Psy.  These standalone one-hour sessions, which will offer tools and techniques to help manage everyday stress, will be held on Monday 24 October at 7.30pm and Tuesday 1 November at 7.30pm in the Hub@531 Lanark Road.  Places are limited to 12  each night.

MINDFUL YOGA: The yoga sessions, managed by local expert Monica from Karma Tree Yoga, https://www.karmatreeyoga.co.uk/ will involve chair sessions for those less mobile, as well as traditional mat sessions for the more able.  They will incorporate breath and relaxation work and encourage you to let go of your everyday stresses, giving you the space to nurture your health and general wellbeing.  These sessions are likely to take place on Tuesdays towards the end of the month. 

Any of the above can be booked by emailing info@pentlandsspace.org or by texting 07923 831 584.

If you have already indicated your interest in any of these activities we will be in touch again nearer the time. 

==****====

3.            Friends of the Grassie?

“The Grassie” is the grassed mound in the middle of Baberton Mains, widely used as a recreational space and maintained by Edinburgh Council in terms of grass cutting etc.

Edinburgh Council is keen to work in partnership with local communities and give residents a greater say in what goes on in greenspaces such as the Grassie.  To do this various “Friends of...... “ groups have been created: in our area alone we have Friends of Curriemuirend Park, Friends of Muirwood Park, and Friends of Hailes Quarry Park.

We’re keen to understand if there is any appetite from residents to set up a similar group for the Grassie.  This group could ensure residents’ views are considered should any proposals affect the area, and could even crowdfund for improvements to the space.

More information can be found here:

https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/downloads/file/22577/friends-of-edinburgh-greenspace-information-pack

Or search online for “friends of edinburgh greenspace”

If you would be interested in joining such a group, please email secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk or message via our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/junipergreencouncil/

==****====

4.            Double Yellow Lines.

Traffic safety is a regular source of concern to our community, and a recurring theme is inappropriate parking on both main and residential roads.

In an effort to address these we have considered various locations where we believe increased enforcement using double yellow lines would improve the safety of pedestrians and drivers and the flow of traffic including public transport.

We have listed some of the potential locations below but are keen to get your views on these and if there are any others where you think improvements could be made:

·     Around the bus stop on Baberton Mains Drive between the Avenue and the Green

·     The top of Baberton Mains Hill

·     The junction at the south-east corner of Baberton Mains Drive

·     Cul-de-sac entrances in general

·     Junction of Baberton Park and Baberton Avenue

·     Around the exit from the turning circle on Baberton Avenue

·     Around the corner of Belmont Avenue and Juniper Avenue

·     Narrower sections of the Lanark Road e.g. west of Juniper Avenue

·     The junction of Woodhall Millbrae and Baberton Crescent

If you have any suggestions or views on any of the above please email secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk or message via our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/junipergreencouncil/

==****====

5.            Poppy Appeal: 26 October to 11 November 2022

JGBMCC is again combining with Currie Community Council and Pentlands Community Space to manage the Poppy Appeal this year in our shops and businesses, including Heriot-Watt University and the Oriam Sports Centre subject to their agreement.  The event runs from 26 October to 11 November.  Please consider supporting this very worthwhile cause.  More information on the Appeal is available here https://www.poppyscotland.org.uk/get-involved/poppy-appeal

==****====

Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council (JGBMCC) meets monthly except July and December, on the fourth Wednesday of the month.   If you wish to attend the meeting please email secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk.  

AGENDA

1. Apologies

2. Minutes of last meeting and actions arising

3. Community Council Focus for 2022

    a. Education Corridor inc. improving path across Muirwood Field

    b. Greenspaces inc. Queens Canopy fund

    c. Bin provision and collection

    d. Traffic inc. bike racks and double yellow lines

4. Councillors' Corner

5. Reports and Recent Meetings

    a. Secretary

    b. Treasurer

    c. Local Planning Matters

6. Any other meetings

8. AOCB

Next meeting Wednesday 26 October 2022

Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council (JGBMCC) meets monthly except July and December, on the fourth Wednesday of the month in Juniper Green Village Hall, Baberton Avenue.   If you wish to attend the meeting please email secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk.  

AGENDA

1. Apologies

2. Minutes of last meeting and actions arising

3. Community Council Focus for 2022

    a. Education Corridor inc. improving path across Muirwood Field

    b. Greenspaces – provision for older children, dogs and removing flooding

    c. Bin provision and collection

    d. Traffic – changes to Lanark Road to better meet community needs

4. Councillors' Corner

5. Reports and Recent Meetings

    a. Secretary

    b. Treasurer

    c. Local Planning Matters

6. Venue for future meetings 

7. Any other meetings

8. AOCB

Next meeting Wednesday 28 September 2022

1.            Pentlands Book Festival, 11 - 22 November 2022

2.            Pentlands Community Space

3.            Garden Waste Collection Registration Closing on 6 September

4.            Winter Booster Jags; Out-Of-Date Bank Of England paper banknotes, and Royal Mail Stamps

==****====

1.            Pentlands Book Festival, 11 - 22 November 2022

Pentlands Book Festival will celebrate its eighth year around Book Week Scotland 11-22 November. The theme is Scotland’s Stories and we will bring exciting books and their writers back to our well-loved venues.

There will be controversy, oh yes, with journalist and podcaster Lesley Riddoch. And challenge with Rosemary Goring, whose new book questions why Mary Queen of Scots got her heid chopped aff. Was it just her own fault? Or must our quarrelsome Scots ancestors bear the blame?

We shall welcome Edinburgh medic and explorer Gavin Francis, who has recently written on the very topical subject of recovery.

And no Pentlands Book Festival would be complete without some serious crime. There’ll be lots of it this year with a panel of three spanking-new crime writers and a literary visit to “the territory of the dead”, aka Portobello, with the award-winning Mary Paulson-Ellis.

We bring you new and emerging writers, too, with a panel of Scottish debut authors, organized by our own debut writer Caron McKinlay. And our local poets Helen Boden and Dorothy Baird make a welcome return: this time showcasing their published work.

Firm favourites also return, like an afternoon meeting our local authors, our visits to archives, and a history walk honouring local hero John Tweedie.  Scotland’s Stories will be told, in prose and in verse, at our 2022 Festival!

Keep an eye on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Pentlands-Book-Festival-903223373082029  or Twitter https://twitter.com/PentBookFest or website http://www.pentlandsbookfestival.org/ as the programme takes shape.

==****====

2.            Pentlands Community Space

Pentlands Community Space would like to hear from you.

Below you will find information on free taster sessions coming to the hub in the Autumn and a request for your views.

PCS has been awarded a small grant to run a couple of stress management groups, six Nordic walking classes and five yoga sessions; all free.  Dates are being fixed for these events and further information will appear when we have all the dates so you can book the event(s) of your choice.  Places will be limited and allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.  Please keep an eye out for booking details in the next C&B News; on posters; this newsletter list, and the PCS Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PentlandsCommunitySpace.

In addition, PCS is starting to take bookings for other classes, including first aid for parents and grandparents.  More details on this and other events will appear in due course, so keep watching for PCS news.

Looking to the future to when the hub is fully open, we would like to hear from you.  What would you like to see running at the hub?  Would you be a regular user of facilities there?  What cost for events would be reasonable?  Would you contribute your talents to the hub’s success? 

A short survey has been prepared online at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/PentlandsCommunitySpace]

Or on paper by picking up a form from Molly’s Deli in Juniper Green and returning it there.

Your views are important to PCS so please give us your feedback.

Feel free to pass this message on to your own network of interested residents.

==****====

3.            Garden Waste Collection Registration Closing on 6 September

Garden waste permits expire on 6 November 2022 and permits, £35 each, must be renewed by 2 pm on 6 September 2022.  You can pay by direct debit or make a one-off payment.  A family member or friend can register online for you if you can’t do it yourself.

Some households don’t have to pay for a garden waste permit: if you qualify for council tax reduction; or get council tax discount or exemption because someone who lives in the property is classed as severely mentally impaired; or receive garden aid but don't have to pay for it. You will still need to register for the service but won’t be charged.

Find out more and sign up online at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/gardenwaste and follow the instructions.

==****====

4.            Winter Booster Jags; Out-Of-Date Bank Of England paper banknotes, and Royal Mail Stamps

Quick reminders. 

If you're 65 and over, you'll soon receive a letter inviting you to get your flu vaccination and a COVID-19 booster.   You’ll only need one appointment for both.   Appointments for all other priority groups will be made as the programme progresses: wait until you are contacted or called forward.

More information here: https://news.nhslothian.scot/2022/08/15/people-aged-65-and-over-to-get-winter-booster-jab/

---

30 September is the last day you can use Bank of England £20 and £50 paper notes.  Read more here https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/banknotes/exchanging-old-banknotes

---

Royal Mail is adding barcodes to all regular ‘everyday’ stamps.  Any non-barcoded stamps will be valid until 31 January 2023. If you won’t use all of your stamps by that date you can swap them for barcoded ones.

More information is available on the website https://www.royalmail.com/sending/barcoded-stamps...

==****====

Royal Mail is adding barcodes to all regular ‘everyday’ stamps. These are the stamps that feature the profile of the Queen on a plain coloured background.

Any non-barcoded stamps will be valid until 31 January 2023, but not after that date. If you won’t be able to use all of your stamps by that date you can swap them for barcoded ones.

Note: Special Stamps with pictures on and Christmas Stamps without a barcode will continue to be valid and don't need to be swapped.

Using them up:

You can carry on using any non-barcoded stamps you have until 31 January 2023.

If you have too many stamps to use them up before this date you can exchange them for new barcoded ones through Royal Mail’s ‘Swap Out’ scheme.

Swapping them out:

Your non-barcoded stamps can be exchanged for the new barcoded version through the Stamp Swap Out scheme. To swap out your stamps, simply complete one of the Stamp Swap Out forms and send it to Royal Mail along with your non-barcoded stamps. The step by step process for doing this is explained below.

How to get a ‘Stamp Swap Out’ form

If you have a printer, you can swap out up to £200 worth of non-barcoded stamps by printing out and completing the Stamp Swap Out form on the Royal Mail website and send it free of charge, along with your stamps, by writing on the envelope Freepost SWAP OUT. No other address details or postcode are needed.

If you have a printer, and more than £200 worth of stamps to swap out then use the Bulk Stamp Swap Out form. The address to send this to is:

Royal Mail

Swap Out

Tallents House

21 South Gyle Crescent

EDINBURGH

EH12 9PB

If you don’t have access to a printer you can request a Stamp Swap Out form to be posted to you by completing this form online https://www.royalmail.com/.../barcoded.../swap-out-request . The instructions for sending back will depend on the form you request.

'Stamp Swap Out' forms are also available from the Customer Service Point at your local Delivery Offices (but please note they will only have the forms for the up to £200 option). Or you can call the Customer Experience Team on 03457 740740.

More information is available in the Q&A section on the website https://www.royalmail.com/sending/barcoded-stamps

Yes, your PBF committee has been working hard and is pleased to advise the following:

Pentlands Book Festival will celebrate its eighth year in 2022 around Book Week Scotland 11-22 November. The theme is Scotland’s Stories and we will bring exciting books and their writers back to our well-loved venues.

There will be controversy, oh yes, with journalist and podcaster Lesley Riddoch. And challenge with Rosemary Goring, whose new book questions why Mary Queen of Scots got her heid chopped aff. Was it just her own fault? Or must our quarrelsome Scots ancestors bear the blame?

We shall welcome Edinburgh medic and explorer Gavin Francis, who has recently written on the very topical subject of recovery. And no Pentlands Book Festival would be complete without some serious crime. There’ll be lots of it this year with a panel of three spanking new crime writers and a literary visit to “the territory of the dead”, aka Portobello, with the award-winning Mary Paulson Ellis.

We bring you new and emerging writers, too, with a panel of Scottish debut authors, organized by our own debut writer Caron McKinlay. And our local poets Helen Boden and Dorothy Baird make a welcome return: this time showcasing their published work.

Firm favourites also return, like an afternoon meeting our local authors, our visits to archives, and a history walk honouring local hero John Tweedie. Scotland’s Stories will be told, in prose and in verse, at our 2022 Festival!

Watch this website as the programme takes shape http://www.pentlandsbookfestival.org/ and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Pentlands-Book-Festival-903223373082029

We’re very pleased to let you know that Merryhatton Garden Centre has been successful in taking over the lease at the old RBS building, 540A Lanark Road, and is already working on getting it in shape to open as a plant shop as soon as possible – possibly early to mid-September.  

Helen, the owner, and Nick, the manager, were very pleased with all the helpful comments made on Facebook, and look forward to further community input.  

To give you an idea of what the shop may stock, the link to the Garden Centre is here https://www.merryhatton.co.uk/

Students from Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt Universities are working on 20-minute neighbourhood projects that hopefully will produce data that will be helpful to our communities.

It would be really useful if people over 60 from Currie and Juniper Green/Baberton Mains could complete the survey form. The deadline is 22nd July 2022.

The survey is online at:

 https://forms.gle/nbicaAo9cqyZpgZf8.

You do not need to provide personal details, or your address if you do not wish to.

JGBMCC has been approached by a business considering opening a plant shop in the old RBS building in Juniper Green and would appreciate input from the local community in terms of what it might sell as well as what services it could offer the community.

The concept is a garden shop which would focus primarily on houseplants and related products, but also include small ranges of other items such as high-quality gifts, greetings cards, cookware etc. The business already operates a garden centre and would also look to offer their entire range of goods such as peat-free composts, garden furniture and a large, diverse range of outdoor plants, with next-day delivery.  In the lead-up to Christmas the seasonal gardening section would be turned into a Christmas boutique with a focus on quality decorations and lights in “stunning displays”.  However, the business is very much plant-oriented and plans to keep this to the fore.

If all goes to plan they hope to open around mid-August this year.

Please email any comments or feedback for the business to secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk. 

(BTW, if you wondered about the possible pet shop opening in the same premises, unfortunately that plan is not now going ahead.)

Thank you

Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council (JGBMCC) is holding its Annual General Meeting, followed by an Ordinary Meeting, on Wednesday 22 June 2022 at 7.30pm.  The meeting will be held physically in-person in Juniper Green Village Hall and, we hope, online via Zoom.

These meetings are open to the public.  Should you wish to attend, either physically or online, please email chair@junipergreencc.org.uk and secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk to receive joining instructions and agendas

Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council June 2022 Newsletter

1.            Pentland Ukrainian Support Group

2.            Pentlands Community Space

3.            Water of Leith Walkway Upgrading Works

4.            Juniper Green Tennis Club

5.            Young Person's Free Bus Travel Scheme

6.            RBS Mobile Bank; Pop-up Post Office; Iceland

7.            Currie Beer and Curry Festival

==****====

1.            Pentland Ukrainian Support Group

The Pentland Ukrainian Support Group has been set up to support Ukrainians who have been displaced and are now living in our area.  It currently supports 20 people, with three more families arriving shortly, and possibly others in future. 

The aim is to help our guests and their hosts in obtaining benefits, bus passes, English lessons, interpretation, and other practical matters.  Also to provide vouchers to give them some dignity in buying items of their choice such as clothes, birthday presents, etc.  The Group is also asking guests for their input into what they need to help them in this traumatic time.

The Group is requesting our community to donate to a fund managed by Currie Balerno Rotary Club on its behalf.  If you wish to make a bank transfer or set up a standing order, please email cbrotary.ukrainian.appeal@gmail.com for details, or else you can donate at the donation boxes: posters and leaflets are being delivered to local businesses, with collection cans soon to follow.  Alternatively you can send a cheque to Doug Marr, Treasurer, Currie Balerno Rotary, 2 The Green, Balerno, EH14 7LD. 

The Group is looking for regular and one-off volunteers to help with social events, English classes and fundraising. If you'd like to get involved please email pusg2022@gmail.com or message the Group via its Facebook page.

You can follow the Group at https://www.facebook.com/Pentlands-Ukrainian-Support-Group-107457941898024 and read more on page 22 of the June 2022 issue of C&B News http://candbnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/CB-News-477-Jun-22-Web.pdf.  Sincere thanks to CB Rotary Club for all its support.

==****====

2.            Pentlands Community Space

NEARLY THERE!

We are delighted to announce that our new community building is now watertight and we are getting ready to get internal work planned.

We want to hear from our community to find out what you think would be useful activities to be held in it, and we will be welcoming not only views but offering an early look-around.  Please get in touch.

If you are thinking "what are we building it for?", it is to enable our community to support its most vulnerable and improve the mental and physical health of many.

We want to promote small group activities such as a gathering of exhausted new parents getting baby feeding support; Alzheimer’s sufferers with their carers playing dominos while listening to golden oldies; arts and crafts mindfulness sessions; bereavement support groups; toddlers’ play; yoga classes; chatting at a book group; board games evenings.  We want activities to promote fun and relaxation, to enable our community to support each other, and strengthen community connections.  But we want your ideas.

We want to link with existing spaces like JG Village Hall and the church halls so that the right space can be available to the community for different needs: with PCS being a more intimate, cosy room rather than a big hall.

We are at the stage where we want folk to get in touch with us either to give their suggested activities or to offer help.  Contact us by email info@pentlandsspace.org or via website pentlandsspace.org or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PentlandsCommunitySpace.  We look forward to hearing from you.

==****====

3.            Water of Leith Walkway Upgrading Works

The Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust is upgrading the walkway from the Union Canal to Balerno during June to August 2022.

The upgrade will use a recycled material called Ultitrec (not a sealed surface) that should require less maintenance and, along with drainage and other associated works, will result in a surface that will allow better access for all abilities.

The first section being upgraded is from the Union Canal to Colinton Tunnel, starting on 6th June for 2-3 weeks.  Unfortunately, due to the machinery being used and the need for the path surface to settle before use, this will mean a need to use alternative routes.  Maps of these will be posted online rand onsite.

The next phase of works will be from Colinton Tunnel to the by-pass from approx. 27th June for 2-3 weeks, and further phases of work will be timetabled.

It is unfortunate that this needs to be undertaken at this busy time of year.  However, for the path surface material to stabilise it needs to be laid in the warmer weather.

==****====

4.            Juniper Green Tennis Club

A tennis road-trip in aid of MND Scotland is coming to Juniper Green Tennis Club on Thursday 30th June at 7:15pm. Stuart is raising funds for the charity MND Scotland by playing 40 tennis matches over 4 days at 40 different tennis clubs between East Lothian and  Orkney.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is an incurable, life-shortening disease which stops messages from the brain reaching the muscles - you can read the story behind the challenge on Stuart’s JustGiving page  

Juniper Green Tennis Club has provided a volunteer to play against Stuart and they’d be delighted to see anyone who wishes to come along.

Stuart would really welcome any donations to his campaign for this very worthy cause. You can donate online at www.justgiving.com/Fast4Forty.  If you’d like to follow the build-up to his challenge and track his progress you can do so here https://www.facebook.com/Fast4Forty

Please note, in a show of community support the JG Tennis Club would like to offer displaced Ukrainian families in the area free membership of the club.  Please get in touch https://www.facebook.com/junipergreentennis

==****====

5.            Young Person's Free Bus Travel Scheme

If you live in Scotland and are 5-21 years old you are eligible for a card giving you free bus travel. Children under 5 years old already travel for free on buses and don’t need a card.  If you’re aged between 16 and 21 and you already have an active NEC or Young Scot NEC issued prior to applications opening on 10 January 2022, you can download free bus travel onto your existing card using the Transport Scot Pass Collect app. This means you may not need to apply for a new card to access your free bus travel. 

The latest information for Edinburgh suggests only about 50% of 5 to 15 year olds have the Pass, but when the cost of living is a serious issue for many families and young people, free bus travel is a big help.

Hopefully applications are now easier with the launch of this website: https://freebus.scot/  and libraries can now deal with paper applications https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/public-transport/get-replace-nec/1

You can read more here https://www.transport.gov.scot/concessionary-travel/young-persons-free-bus-travel-scheme/

==****====

6.            RBS Mobile Bank; Pop-up Post Office; Iceland

Just a reminder that the RBS mobile bank continues to provide service at Iceland on Tuesdays from 11:45am to 12:45pm. While you’re there take advantage of Iceland offering 10% discount on Tuesdays on all products to those over 60, but take proof of age such as a bus pass or driving licence.

The pop-up post office also continues at the Scout Hut on Lanark Road on Wednesdays from 12:30pm to 3:30pm.

==****====

7.            Currie Beer and Curry Festival

Taking place from 6pm this Friday and Saturday, 10 and 11 June, at Currie Community Centre, the last few tickets are available at £15 each https://cbdrt.com/events/beer-festival/2022/.   Volunteers are needed for Saturday night, and if you can help clear up on Sunday you are promised free tickets for next year’s festival.

The Community Council has been approached by a family-run independent business interested in opening a retail outlet in the JGBM area.  It is looking for views on whether a pet store and groomer would be welcomed, and if there is anything that people feel is lacking in other pet shops.

The business has been trading online selling pet food, treats, accessories etc, for roughly a year and a half, leading to its next step in acquiring premises.

The pet shop would sell a variety of dog, cat, small animal, bird & fish products; from food & treats to accessories etc, and a selection of raw dog/cat food. Two rooms are mapped out for grooming.  There are also thoughts of a potential monthly farmers market,  linking in with other local/independent businesses.

If you have any views on such a business opening locally please email secretary@junipergreencc.org.uk

1.     JGBMCC Focus Areas

2.     Dog-fouling

3.     Juniper Green Tennis Club

4.     Removal of Tree at Juniper Green Village Hall

5.     Pentlands Book Festival/ Balerno Music Festival

6.     Local Government Elections, 5 May 2022

==****====

1.     JGBMCC Focus Areas

The Community Council previously identified a set of priority areas to work on so that we focussed our efforts on the needs of our community rather than simply reacting to external change.  WE’D STILL WELCOME YOUR FEEDBACK.  

We have been reasonably successful in our endeavours and have seen, amongst other things, the creation of our new website, approval for (thankfully as yet unneeded) changes to reduce rat-running, and lobbying for the protection of Curriemuirend Park. 

As we move forward it’s important that we continue to reflect on our priorities and adapt them as our needs change.  To that end we would like your input regarding what you would like us to focus on.  Some of our ideas are below, but please feel free to come up with your own or highlight those that are closest to your heart: 

·          Improving the path across Muirwood Field linking Bloomiehall Park and Muirwood Road 

·          Improving greenspace facilities for older children 

·          Improving the provision of bins in our streets and parks 

·          Improving Lanark Road to better reflect the needs of our community 

·          Reducing flooding at the east end of Bloomiehall Park 

·          Improving facilities and greenspaces to reflect increased dog ownership 

Please send any feedback on these or suggestions for additions to chair@junipergreencc.org.uk and correspondence@junipergreencc.org.uk

==****====

2.     Dog-fouling

Dog-fouling usually incites passionate discussion, where everyone is against it but somehow it still occurs – and is becoming more frequent.  Not only is it an offence but it can cause very unpleasant diseases.

We all wish to keep our streets clean and safe, and the Community Council encourages you to report any incidence of dog fouling, particularly if it is repeated.  You can report it at this link:

https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/dogfouling. 

And if you see a full or overflowing littler bin on the street, please report it here:

https://webforms.edinburgh.gov.uk/site/portal/request/litter

You can read more on the subject at these links:  

https://www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/media/136796/dogfouling_leaflet2013_16-09.pdf

https://www.nhsborders.scot.nhs.uk/media/197779/dog-cat-infections-June-2014.pdf

 ==****====

3.     Juniper Green Tennis Club

Everyone is invited along to the Juniper Green Tennis Club Open Day on Saturday 7^th May from 13:00-17:00.  Whether you’re already a member of JGTC or considering joining, you will be most welcome.

JGTC is in the heart of Juniper Green Village.  It is a friendly, inclusive place, offering opportunities for play from complete beginner up.

Coach Kenny Petrie runs sessions for all age groups and abilities and he will be pleased to chat with you about his coaching plans for the coming season.  Kenny will also be running some fun activities for families (13:00-14:00) and for adults (14:00-15:00).  Bring your racquet (or borrow one from the Club) and come along to enjoy some fun activities with the family.

JGTC Committee members look forward to seeing you there and will be pleased to provide information about membership and Club activities.  You can contact them on junipergreentennis@gmail.com and keep in touch with their activities on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/junipergreentennis or website   https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/JuniperGreenTennisClub/

==****====

4.     Removal of Tree at Juniper Green Village Hall

You may have noticed that the large tree outside JGVH has been removed.  We have been advised that the decision to remove the tree was taken by City of Edinburgh Council (CEC), which owns the Village Hall building and surrounding land, on the basis that the tree was becoming dangerously large and was affecting the stability of the wall which was cracking under the pressure.

Recently the JGVH committee noticed that a chunky part of the wall had come loose.  The committee contacted CEC to look at the wall and have it repointed, which may have triggered a review the wall as a whole.

It is understood that the plan is to fully remove the tree, reset and stabilise the wall, and at a later date CEC has said it may replant a different tree. Otherwise the Village Hall committee is keen to plant something else there once the ground settles.

==****====

5.     Pentlands Book Festival/ Balerno Music Festival

Very early days, but just to let you know that the PBF committee is working on PBF 2022.  Keep your eyes on C&B News and the website http://www.pentlandsbookfestival.org/ and FB page https://www.facebook.com/Pentlands-Book-Festival-903223373082029

Regarding Balerno Music Festival, without new committee members the Balerno Music Festival will not run in 2022.  If you can help, please get in touch at hello@balernomusicfestival.org.uk  by April 22nd to find out more.

==****====

6.     Local Government Elections, 5 May 2022

Four Councillors are to be elected for our Pentland Hills ward during the election on Thursday 5 May.   If you are eligible and registered to vote you should have received, or will shortly receive, a Poll Card giving voting information including your polling station.

If you are not registered to vote but are eligible and wish to, your application must reach the Electoral Registration Officer, 17a South Gyle Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 9FL, by 12 midnight on Monday 18 April 2022. Applications can be made online via the government website https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Any elector may apply for a postal or proxy vote at this election.

Applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 5pm on Tuesday 19 April 2022.

Applications to vote by proxy at this election must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 5pm on Tuesday 26 April 2022.

Applications to amend or cancel existing proxy arrangements must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 5pm Tuesday 19 April 2022.

Further information is available on the Edinburgh Council website: https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/elections-voting/local-government-elections-2022/2

Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council March 2022 Newsletter

1.     JGBMCC Focus Areas

2.     Community for Food

3.     Local Government Elections, 5 May 2022

==****====

1.     JGBMCC Focus Areas

The Community Council previously identified a set of priority areas to work on so that we focussed our efforts on the needs of our community rather than simply reacting to external change. 

We have been reasonably successful in our endeavours and have seen, amongst other things, the creation of our new website, approval for (thankfully as yet unneeded) changes to reduce rat-running, and lobbying for the protection of Curriemuirend Park. 

As we move forward it’s important that we continue to reflect on our priorities and adapt them as our needs change.  To that end we would like your input regarding what you would like us to focus on.  Some of our ideas are below, but please feel free to come up with your own or highlight those that are closest to your heart: 

·          Improving the path across Muirwood Field linking Bloomiehall Park and Muirwood Road 

·          Improving greenspace facilities for older children 

·          Improving the provision of bins in our streets and parks 

·          Improving Lanark Road to better reflect the needs of our community 

·          Reducing flooding at the east end of Bloomiehall Park 

·          Improving facilities and greenspaces to reflect increased dog ownership 

Please send any feedback on these or suggestions for additions to chair@junipergreencc.org.uk and correspondence@junipergreencc.org.uk

==****====

2.     Community for Food

Community for Food (CFF) is a voluntary organisation supporting vulnerable families experiencing food poverty, holiday hunger, period and hygiene poverty.  Set up in March 2020 at the start of the Covid pandemic, the initial focus was emergency food parcels.  Now it is linked with local schools, focusing on families who really need help on a continuing basis. 

All families are referred to CFF through five local schools (Juniper Green Primary, Nether Currie Primary, Currie Primary, Currie High, Balerno High).  CFF currently supports 34 families (121 people) every week, and has supplied over 2,000 deliveries in the past year or so, providing fresh food and larder provisions, toiletries and household products.  

CFF is a community food service, not a food bank.  It offers families a hand up in a way that gives them dignity and choice.  Each week families request a list of goods, which CFF orders for collection or delivery.  Its tailored approach provides flexibility, and its delivery service ability means it can support families who cannot access food banks due to transport issues or ill health, and has been vital during the pandemic. 

CFF is dependent on in-kind support and is run entirely by volunteers.  It has partnerships with Morrisons and FareShare, which provide free and reduced-cost goods.  HeyGirls, a community interest company aimed at eradicating period poverty, provides sanitary items.  Juniper Green Village Hall provides space to pack, distribute goods and store non-perishable items, free of charge.  CFF has a small committee, a community of 29 volunteers, and 9 Duke of Edinburgh volunteers who help take delivery of produce, pack, and deliver goods to the families each week using their own vehicles. This wonderful community support means that all the money raised goes directly to supporting the families.  

Community for Food relies on the generosity of local volunteers and donors - without their support it could not provide its vital service. 

To find out what products it most needs and where you can drop off items, visit and “like”

https://www.facebook.com/communityforfood/

To make a financial donation, visit https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=RVLKZ5GBSJCHS

If you are interested in getting involved in CFF’s work, email Tiggy at communityforfood@gmail.com

 ==****====

3.     Local Government Elections, 5 May 2022

Four Councillors are to be elected for our Pentland Hills ward during the election on Thursday 5 May.   If you are eligible and registered to vote you should have received, or will shortly receive, a Poll Card giving voting information including your polling station.

If you are not registered to vote but are eligible and wish to, your application must reach the Electoral Registration Officer, 17a South Gyle Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 9FL, by 12 midnight on Monday 18 April 2022. Applications can be made online via the government website https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Any elector may apply for a postal or proxy vote at this election.

Applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 5pm on Tuesday 19 April 2022.

Applications to vote by proxy at this election must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 5pm on Tuesday 26 April 2022.

Applications to amend or cancel existing proxy arrangements must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 5pm Tuesday 19 April 2022.

Further information is available on the Edinburgh Council website: https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/elections-voting/local-government-elections-2022/2

We have heard as-yet-unconfirmed rumours of hustings but have no further information at present.  Keep an eye on our website https://jgbmcc.org/ and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/junipergreencouncil     for any updates.

Juniper Green and Baberton Mains Community Council February 2022 Newsletter

1.            Research on Care in Later Life

2.            20-Minute Neighbourhoods

3.            Church Reorganisation

4.            Carer Recovery Fund

5.            Fairtrade Fortnight, Monday 21st February to Sunday 6th March

==****====

1.            Research on Care in Later Life

A team of researchers at the University of Edinburgh is conducting a study about care in later life. It is interested in how individuals, families, communities, and health and social care services can manage care better in different community contexts. They want to learn from people living in different places and with different social, economic, and cultural backgrounds, to ensure that research covers the diversity of experiences of care in later life. They aim to work with individuals aged 50+ (with no upper age limit) with views on caring.

If you are interested in participating please email careincontext@ed.ac.uk or call 0131 651 8882

==****====

2.            20-Minute Neighbourhoods

A representative of Edinburgh Council recently gave a presentation to JGBMCC and provided the below statement.  While it is still too early in the process to detail how this will affect our area, we hope the below helps understand the concept.  We will continue to work with the Council on local implementation.

“Cities across the world are adopting policies to promote localism as a means of tackling key strategic issues such as poverty, wellbeing, climate change and sustainability. In June 2021, The City of Edinburgh Council agreed a strategy for implementing ’20-Minute Neighbourhood’ principles across the city. 

The ‘20-Minute Neighbourhood’ approach is about living well locally, giving residents the ability to meet most of their daily needs from within their own community. This will mean something different to each person, but schools, parks, housing, shops, health services, cultural facilities, public transport links and workspaces are all important.

It means that the Council will work with public and voluntary sector partners to make sure that communities have convenient access to quality services. This might mean locating different services in the same place to create ‘community hubs’. For example, in Pennywell there is a project underway to deliver a new hub at the heart of the community - with a library, early years, arts space and other support services all in one place. The new Currie High School will have a range of facilities that will be available to the community.

Successful ’20-minute neighbourhoods’ are not just about what facilities and services are located there. It is also important for them to be greener, safer and attractive local places that people want to visit. A network of thriving and vibrant local centres can support local businesses.

People also need to be able to easily move round their local neighbourhood by walking, wheeling cycling or using public transport. A core principle of the Council’s 2030 Climate Strategy is the creation of 20-minute neighbourhoods because of the effect it can have on reducing local car emissions.

The Council will develop its approach to implementing the ’20-Minute Neighbourhood Strategy’ throughout 2022. In a city like Edinburgh it won’t happen overnight. It will be an ongoing process of change, with comprehensive community and partner engagement key to its successful delivery. The Council has already met with JGBMCC, and will continue to liaise with communities along the Water of Leith to consider how the ’20 Minute Neighbourhood Strategy’ can be progressed in the area.”

 ==****====

3.            Church Reorganisation

Jim Dewar, Minister of Juniper Green Parish Church, has given us the following update:

“The Churches of Edinburgh and West Lothian are going through a process of reorganisation of ministers. We are tasked with reducing the number of ministers in Edinburgh from 80 to 48.5 in the next 5 years. In the consultation document that was sent out before Christmas that was the only question being addressed. We recognise that this will mean changes, but we understand that this will not involve major alterations to the provision of church buildings in the city.

Locally, we recognise that our church buildings are huge community assets, providing worship space as well as space for many community groups to meet; we have made that argument over and over again to those who are conducting the audit of church buildings as part of this planning process. There is still more work to be done over the next few months, so watch this space.”

==****====

4.            Carer Recovery Fund

VOCAL, Voice of Carers Across Lothian, has received £500,000 funding from the Scottish Government and City of Edinburgh Council, to improve carers’ wellbeing. Carers can apply for support with fuel payments, food vouchers, or general costs associated with improving their financial situation.

The Carer Recovery Fund will help those in greatest need through the delivery of grants up to £500 per carer household. Carers can apply for support with fuel payments, food vouchers, or general costs associated with improving their financial situation. General grants cover wellbeing activities to reduce stress, access breaks from caring, purchase basic furniture (including white goods), support to seek employment and costs associated with caring such as training, transport or equipment.

Sebastian Fischer, Chief Executive at VOCAL said:

“Often as a result of the pandemic, some carers have had to reduce their hours at work, or even stop working altogether. With the recent cut to Universal Credit, increased inflation and rising fuel prices, carers are being sucked further to the edge of poverty with their financial and emotional resilience pushed to the limit.

If you’re supporting a family member, partner, relative or friend, of any age, who needs help to manage a long-term condition, disability, physical or mental health problem, or addiction, you are a carer and could be eligible to access a grant.

We would urge carers who are facing financial difficulties to get in touch with us and apply. We are also asking Edinburgh citizens to spread the word with friends and family members. We want to see as many carers as possible benefiting from this.”

To apply, visit the website: https://www.vocal.org.uk/carer-support/info-for-carers/practical-support/carer-recovery-fund/ 

==****====

5.            Fairtrade Fortnight, Monday 21st February to Sunday 6th March

Edinburgh Fair Trade City Steering Group https://www.facebook.com/edinfairtrade has reminded us that Fairtrade Fortnight is coming up shortly.  Fairtrade Fortnight is an opportunity to stand with farmers in low-income countries affected by the climate crisis; a show of solidarity with communities on the frontline.  Together we can help farmers benefit from fairer prices and fairer trading practices, and obtain the resources they need to tackle the climate emergency.

The climate crisis is the biggest threat to the livelihoods of millions of small-scale farmers and agricultural workers in low-income countries.  Without a fairer income they are unable to invest in the mitigation and adaptation techniques needed to protect the environment and their businesses.   

Fairtrade communities play a key role in raising awareness of the link between trade and poverty.  Fairtrade fights the climate crisis: Fairtrade Standards encourage producers to protect the environment by improving soil, planting trees, conserving water and avoiding pesticides, while Fairtrade’s climate academies help farmers share best practices and learn the latest agricultural methods to adapt to conditions.  Engage with Fairtrade Fortnight to protect people and planet, and buy Fairtrade products to make trade fairer for those in lower-income countries. 

Global heating is already disastrous for the farmers and workers who grow our food – they need cash to adapt.  Poverty and environmental damage in food supply chains will not end until exploited farmers are paid fairly and can plan for the future.  Only then can they effectively fight the impacts of the climate crisis.  This matters to you as climate change threatens the survival and sustainability of supply chains behind some of the UK’s best-loved imports, such as coffee, cocoa and bananas.

Being a farmer shouldn’t be a route to poverty, and the Fairtrade Premium is vital to give farmers in low-income nations the tools to tackle the climate crisis.  For example, without it cocoa farmers only earn 3% of the price of a chocolate bar. 

Join us this Fairtrade Fortnight and act for climate justice.

A team of researchers at the University of Edinburgh is conducting a study about care in later life. It is interested in how individuals, families, communities, and health and social care services can manage care better in different community contexts. They want to learn from people living in different places and with different social, economic, and cultural backgrounds, to ensure that research covers the diversity of experiences of care in later life. They aim to work with individuals aged 50+ (with no upper age limit) with views on caring.

If you are interested in participating please email careincontext@ed.ac.uk or call 0131 651 8882