VIEWS are being sought on plans for a large community garden to the south of Dollar.
Proposals, led by Harviestoun Estate which is working with partners Dollar Community Development Trust, are for a social space where people can meet and enjoy the outdoors.
Draft plans by the estate include a 6.2hectare field, close to the health centre and the Devon Way, for an orchard, garden and place for wider community use.
The trust explained it has s received support from Harviestoun Estate to explore how the proposal might be progressed in partnership, and was successful in securing a grant from the Green Action Trust to carry out a feasibility study exploring the options for a community garden.
Both see a huge potential to benefit the community by improving health and wellbeing, enhancing biodiversity and providing a place for learning.
Rebecca McFarlane, development officer at the Dollar Community Development Trust, said: “We’re really excited about this opportunity to work closely with Harviestoun Estate to develop what will be a huge asset for the town.
“But we need the community to tell us they support the idea, without them completing our survey we can’t prove we have the community’s support and will struggle to secure future funding.”
An outline plan showcasing the draft ideas indicate a community hub near the entrance on the northern boundary for an indoor and outdoor workshop space, tool shed, flower cutting garden and space for events.
The garden could also incorporate raised growing beds for community use, a market garden with poly tunnels and a hen run, as well as an orchard garden with fruit trees.
According to the outline plan, the project could also include a wetland garden with seasonal ponds as well as a woodland garden linking to the ancient alder woods to the south.
Nicholas Poett, from Harviestoun Estate, added: “Harviestoun Estate are really keen to work with the trust and the community to jointly develop this area and to create a positive and lasting legacy.
“We are really interested in trying to bring the community together, in a garden space that’s open to all, and to show how healthy soils and growing our own healthy local food is not only good for us as individuals but can also allow us all to play a part in combating climate change and reducing plastic waste.”
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