THE COMMUNITY COUNCIL of Tillicoultry, Coalsnaughton and Devonside has published its first plan, which will help shape the area's future.

More than 70 interested residents turned out at the Devonvale Hall two weeks ago for the launch of the five-year Community Action Plan with many signing up to get involved in the first projects emerging from the initiative.

The launch came after several months of consultation and participation in the community through a survey, stakeholder conversations and an event in January which attracted almost 400 people.

The document was finalised by the plan's steering group after listening to everyone's views, concerns and ideas – it contains a long-term vision for the area's towns and villages.

Cleaning up the area ranks high on the list of priorities and the steering group's environment theme champion Elizabeth Young presented the proposals at the event to keep everything tidy.

She said: “If everybody takes a pride in the area, and does a little to keep it tidy, we will see a huge difference.

“I’ve already received a donation to buy bulbs for planters next spring, and we will be working with businesses and community groups to build on this.”

Elizabeth hopes to spruce the area up with more flower displays and by improving shopfronts – several volunteers have already joined her and they will be forming the Environment Group.

Ewart McAuslane, secretary of the community council, added: “The response from the community has been amazing – we can honestly say we have listened to all age groups and interests, and the Community Action Plan reflects the views of all who took part.

“It is now up to the community to make the most of this opportunity – the community council cannot, and should not, be responsible for everything in the plan.

“We will co-ordinate the efforts of others, and provide support where we can, but we need local people to step forward and play their part now, as well as continued support from Clackmannanshire Council and other service providers.

“Working in partnership will be the key to success.”

The production of the plan was funded by Local Energy Scotland and Clackmannanshire Council. The STAR Development Group provided support and guidance through the Community Futures Programme.

Copies of the plan are available at the Ben Cleuch Centre in Tillicoultry while the electronic version is also available on the community council's website tcd-communitycouncil.btck.co.uk