The Glenmidge Burn Project is an Unincorporated Community Association focussed on the ecology of land along the Glenmidge Burn, part of which is in the Keir CC area. We have an open membership of 40+, we carry out Phase 1 Baseline surveys, identifying habitats and sharing data with SWSEIC. We present open citizen science events and work with other environmental organisations, Glasgow University, Unesco Biosphere etc.
Last week, an area of land we have just started surveying, immediately upstream of the village of Glenmidge, was put up for sale.
https://www.cdrural.co.uk/property/land-at-hillhead-hillhead-farm-dumfries-dg2-0ts
Sale of this land is an environmental risk but is also a huge opportunity. It is poor land for farming (LFA) but it contains diverse and very interesting habitats in which there will be at-risk species. Depending on who buys it, it could be built on, it could be added to a shooting beat, it could be planted with Sitka, or it could simply be bought by an investment fund. It is also attractive to absentee buyers which could exclude the community and the project from it to a greater or lesser extend.
The Glenmidge Burn Project is prepared to lead a community purchase to secure it for the community, give it an environmental role in an intensively farmed area and a sustainable role as a community amenity.
You will see that there are two lots. The larger, Lot 2, is of more environmental interest but Lot 1 provides space for making the project more self-sustaining which in turn offers the prospect of employment
We would like to host a community meeting to gauge support, listen to ideas and explore all avenues for raising the funds in the time available.
Suggestions for the land as a community asset may include combinations of:
- environmental protection,
- public access and engagement in its maintenance and development.
- site of detailed scientific research,
- re-establish a wetland which may have a beneficial impact on flooding,
- creating a broadleaf woodland,
- various forms of sustainable business; tree nursery, community growing
- young peoples’ engagement, education and training in the field.
- a community/project/environmental centre
Please get in touch with your ideas, to show support or to let us know what you think of the idea!
Public drop in sessions are being held to gather your ideas and opinions so come along to share your thoughts and learn more.
Keir village hall: Mon 4th Sep at 6pm – 7pm
Auldgirth village hall: Tue 5th Sep at 6pm – 7pm
The Flying Pig, Dunscore: Thu 7th Sep, 6pm – 7pm
Community land ownership only works with local support so show up to show yours. It can happen!
The Glenmidge Burn Project 