A CHARITY is launching a new project to find out what local residents think of Kinneil Estate and Kinneil Foreshore.
The Friends of Kinneil hopes the work will also generate greater awareness of the facilities and attractions at both sites – and even attract new money into future projects.
The group is targeting the Deanfield area of Bo’ness – close to the park areas – for door-to-door surveys. There will also be drop in sessions at local venues.
- Read the Kinneil Newsletter for Deanfield
- Read about the project worker appointed for the Deanfield project
Maria Ford, the chair of The Friends of Kinneil, said: “Deanfield borders the Foreshore area and is close to Kinneil Estate. We want to know more about how local residents use the spaces, and if they make use of all the facilities. For instance they may not know about the free, regular events on offer – such as health walks and open days. We’d also like to hear about any improvements they’d like to see.
“The Estate and Foreshore are well used spaces and I’m sure people will have lots to say.”
She added: “The charity – since its launch in 2006 – has campaigned for improvements to the Kinneil area, and have won a lot of successes. But we’re constantly talking to people to define future priorities and to respond to local people. Hopefully this research project will help.”
Funding for the project has been secured through the Growing Communities Fund, a small grants programme aimed at helping local groups and people in regeneration areas to become more involved in their communities. The fund also helps residents influence local services and improve their local areas.
The fund is managed locally by CVS Falkirk and District – using cash from the Scottish Government’s Fairer Scotland Fund. Local CVS chief executive Kenny Murphy said: “We’ve worked with The Friends of Kinneil since the group was established and have seen the organisation grow from a small campaign group into a hard-working charity, trying to deliver real results for local people in the Bo’ness area. The charity already runs well supported open days at Kinneil House and other activities to promote the Kinneil area. But we know they want to do more.
“Consultation activities like this can help groups build up a clear picture of local needs and help support future funding bids to make improvements. The project may also attract more volunteers to help The Friends of Kinneil. We hope the people of Deanfield will support the consultation process and get involved in some way.”
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