Kirknewton Community Development Plan 2012-2014

Kirknewton, West Lothian Background of the Plan The Content of the Plan The Kirknewton Community Development Plan (KCDP) summarises community views about: Kirknewton today The community vision for the next three years The issues that matter to the community The themes, priorities and actions for the next three years.

The Plan provides a statement about the type of place Kirknewton aims to be, what the community see as their priority projects – and what needs to be achieved to meet these aspirations.

The Plan will be used to determine the community’s needs in discussion with public agencies, partners, funders and with any profits from community assets.

The Plan has been prepared by the Kirknewton Community Development Trust (KCDT), with community consultation provided by Vikki Hilton Associates, Tony Foster (Development Officer) and supported by Big Lottery funding.

The 2011 consultation took on board information from previous consultations in 2007 and 2009.

Summary of Consultations in 2007 & 2009 KCDT (then Kirknewton Community Renewables Ltd) commissioned a participatory appraisal in 2007. This participatory appraisal was focused on opportunities for community renewable energy schemes, improving energy efficiency and tackling fuel poverty. The suggestions for investing in local renewable energy projects to provide community benefit was supported by over 80% of the Kirknewton community who participated. Local people who participated in the study also commented on the lack of community facilities in the village e.g “Am thinking of moving because of this (because of the lack of facilities/amenities)” and “ Not enough facilities – especially with more houses being built”. They said what they thought was needed and what improvements they would like to see “ Improving community spirit – only pub, PO, shop – that’s it”, Something to draw the community together – “Tea/sandwich and dance and meals – no restaurant” and “A few places are derelict that could be used to benefit general wellbeing, a place to stop and sit and socialize – build community”.

The outcomes of the study can be seen at http://www.issuu.com/isihamba/docs/microsoft_word__kirknewton_newsletter_report KCDT also held a community consultation event at Kirknewton Primary School in 2009. This was a fun community event featuring craft activities for kids using recycled materials and information on KCDT projects. Local people were asked what they like and disliked about Kirknewton, how it could be improved and how it could be made more eco-friendly. Local people who participated commented on the lack of community facilities and the improvements they would like to see e.g. “no real community centre”, “build community spirit with tangible projects”, “baby/child friendly café” “better community facilities for all ages 5 to 95” and “an integrated community centre, GP's surgery, health centre and library”.

5