Successful outcome to Saline consultation

A community consultation has shown strong support for the Saline Environmental Group’s proposals for improvements to the village.

The consultation was the final phase in the development of ideas for a community garden, conversion of a derelict outhouse at Saline School, an improved path to Steelend and a new path to Oakley.

Villagers were able to see detailed plans funded from a grant from the Big Lottery’s “Investing in Ideas” initiative.

According the group’s new chair, John Lyon, “Until we were able to show concrete proposals, it was difficult to convey our ideas to people.

"The BIG Lottery grant enabled us to hire people in to develop ideas and give clear indications of costs. Thanks to volunteers’ efforts, we were able to letter most homes in Saline and Steelend, which resulted in an excellent turnout. This has given us the confidence to move forward towards funding bids. Importantly, we were able to recruit new members who will bring their own ideas and enthusiasm.”

The consultation demonstrated most support for the path to Oakley and for access to the countryside in general.

“The support came from people of all ages as the path would permit people to get safely to Oakley or to the countryside, something that is difficult at present for those without cars or who just want the exercise.

" Buses are expensive and are unsuitable for disabled people, which disadvantages many people. The rumours of cuts to the bus service makes the path even more necessary” said John

“We also learned of the difficulties experienced by horse riders in finding suitable routes and will be looking to help them on this."

Other projects such as a local museum in the church session house, a keep-fit circuit and a path to Gowkhall were also identified and the group will be looking for ways to take these on board although it wants to progress priority works first.

According to John Lyon "an important aspect of Investigating in Ideas"' is that it enables communities to develop their ideas to a position where they can confidently apply for funds.

"Fife Council’s Funding Roadshows were helpful in identifying funding opportunities and we will be submitting bids for the community garden and for the first phase of the path to Oakley bids later this year, Hopefully we will see something on the ground by this time next year.”

The group has drawn its proposals together in its new Action Plan. This can be examined here (NOTE: this is a large PDF file and should only be downloaded with a broadband connection), or CDs with hi-resolution photos and drawings in colour can be obtained from group officials.

The group has now agreed to meet monthly in Saline Community Centre on the last Tuesday of each month and minutes will be posted on this website.

"Investing in Ideas" is a BIG Lottery initiative that will give a grant of up to £10,000 to groups to develop their ideas.

In the West Fife Villages area, in addition to Saline Environmental Group, awards have been made to Blairhall community Association and West Fife Woodlands. These groups are willing to share their experiences and can be contacted via this site.

Details of BIG Lottery grants are available here.