Dear friend of Giffnock community,
The petition has raised awareness and has got many talking. That is the point. We are keeping the issue in the public eye, for it us, the public, who will ultimately save the park. My role is to take the hits and ensure that the community's will is carried. I will do that whatever the cost, as I am sick and tired of inertia and negativity. It is time that positive attitudes prevailed over fear.
All is not negative though. Councillor Annette Ireland, chair of East Renfrewshire Planning Applications Committee, has publicly stated that 'Huntly Park is already protected'. I thank her for this. My concern now is that a developer applying for permission could take that comment by the chair and object (I expect that diligent planning lawyers on form will do their homework).
This is why securing permanent legal protection is key. Whilst I wish Councillor Ireland a long, healthy and distinguished career in public life, no one councillor can guarantee the future of the park. The good news is that there is a legal mechanism to achieve it. It can be done through Fields in Trust, who have been very helpful in providing advice. Their advice is to keep using the park and keep campaigning; just as we are doing.
We now need East Renfrewshire Council to make an application to Fields in Trust. It strikes me that can be done with ease. The matter just needs attention now.
This is a slog, but we are slogging well.
Keep safe.
Best wishes,
Allan