Central Scotland Green Network

The Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) is a long-term initiative to bring about a step change in environmental quality, woodland cover and recreational opportunities in Central Scotland.

Logo of the Central Scotland Green Network) It covers an area stretching from Ayrshire and Inverclyde in the west to Fife and the Lothians in the east (see map below).

Aims

The initiative aims to:

make Central Scotland a more attractive place to live in, do business and visit
help to absorb CO₂
enhance biodiversity
promote active travel and healthier lifestyles.

Protection and development of green networks

The protection and development of green networks is increasingly seen as crucial to sustainable economic development and quality of life.

Accordingly, the Scottish Government’s 2nd National Planning Framework designates the CSGN as one of only 14 National Developments that are seen as critical to the delivery of the Government’s spatial strategy.

See: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/07/02105627/0.

Who's involved?

Scottish Natural Heritage logo Forestry Commission Scotland has been designated as the joint lead for the development of the CSGN, along with our SEARS partner Scottish Natural Heritage.

We are supporting the initiative with funding for a Chairman and a Support Unit (hosted by the Central Scotland Forest Trust), support for a Partnership Board, and resources from our capital and revenue programmes to support early action on the ground.

CSGN Funding

We are making funding available to support the development of early delivery projects through a CSGN Development Fund.

Funding has also recently been made available for a Learning Outdoors Fund.

CSGN Vision and workplan

The recently published Vision for the CSGN is that:

"By 2050, Central Scotland has been transformed into a place where the environment adds value to the economy and where people’s lives are enriched by its quality."

The Vision document also outlines 5 themes, ambitions and principles that will guide action to deliver the green network and a detailed workplan for the CSGN Support Unit and Lead Partners identifies the key areas where co-ordinated action can add value to existing greenspace initiatives and the key barriers and gaps to greater progress on the ground.

Further details are available at: www.centralscotlandgreennetwork.org.

CSGN activity area map

Map of the area covered by the Central Scotland Green Network, stretching from Ayrshire and Inverclyde in the west, to Fife and the Lothians in the east