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The CSGN was officially launched by the Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham on 30 September 2009 at the Green Networks: Potential for Central Scotland conference. Describing the CSGN as an: “ambitious new greenspace project, the biggest of its kind in Europe,” the Minister set out how the initiative will see the central belt of Scotland transformed into a more attractive place, benefiting over three million people who live or do business there. |
Where has the idea come from?
The development of a Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) has been confirmed as one of 14 National Development in the 2nd National Planning Framework published in June 2009.
Green networks in and around towns and cities are increasingly seen as a mechanism to deliver many of the social, environmental and economic outcomes identified by the Scottish Government’s National Performance Framework and by Single Outcome Agreements.
The concept of ‘added value’ is at the core of the CSGN:
- Looking at existing greenspace and green networks across the region the CSGN will identify gaps in provision, where needs and pressures are greatest, and help pinpoint opportunities and priorities for improvement and investment;
- Working with existing green initiatives (such as the Glasgow & Clyde Valley Green Network, the Central Scotland Forest Trust, the Millennium Canal Link, the Edinburgh and Lothians Forest Habitat Network and the Falkirk Helix), local authorities, landowners, NGOs and communities the CSGN will transform the environment of the region and make Central Scotland a more attractive place in which to live and do business.
Partners believe that CSGN will add up to much more than the sum of its parts.
The Action Programme published alongside NPF2 sets out initial proposals on the outcomes the CSGN might help deliver across Central Scotland.
Image Courtesy of Central Scotland Forest Trust.
