The Love Dougalston campaign goes digital

‘Love Dougalston launches its new website today (Thursday).

On the outskirts of Milngavie, Dougalston is brimming with local wildlife where protected species, such as bats and pine martins are regularly sighted.

Website www.lovedougal ston.co.uk highlights why the area is so loved, the many ways in which it is used by residents and visitors and also asks people to sign up in support of the campaign. Over the past few years, proposals have been put forward to the local authority suggesting the greenbelt area be made into mixed use development within the local development plan.

While these have been unsuccessful so far, the most recent application by British Land prompted local residents, wishing to preserve the woodland and open green space, to form the campaign group LoveDougalston.

Its chair, Andy Gibson, said: “This is a crucial time for Milngavie and for Dougalston. The launch of the LoveDougalston website highlights how serious and passionate we are about preserving and protecting the area for the benefit of generations to come.”

Councillors rejected the plans in September put forward by British Land but as an appeal may be forthcoming, LoveDouglaston hopes the website will encourage people to get behind the campaign and take action during the representation window, which is open until January.

Chairman Andy Gibson added: “We are inviting members of our community to get in touch and become involved in the campaign.

“Via the website they can find out more about the area, sign up to receive our newsletter, and request info about making representation to East Dunbartonshire Council, including a guide and template.”