In November 2023, a plot of open space on Sunnylaw Road (between Mine and Mid Woods) was advertised for sale at auction. The area, which comprises roughly 2.4 hectares, is shown on the image above. This green space is currently open public space, and while privately owned it has been maintained by Stirling Council on behalf of the community. However, this maintenance is due to end this year as the council looks to make savings.
Many community members were concerned about the sale and the potential for the land to be sold for development. The community council shared this concern and first discussed the issue at our November meeting, with many local residents in attendance. We agreed at that meeting to set up a separate open discussion on the sale of the land at Sunnylaw, with all interested groups agreeing to come along. The purpose of the group is to explore options for keeping the land in community use and ownership for years to come.
At the first meeting of the Sunnylaw Land Group we heard ideas and suggestions from local groups and residents about how the community could purchase the land. We agreed at that meeting to contact the sellers and their agents to ask that the land was removed from the auction and consideration was given to gifting /transferring the land to the community. We have now heard back from the sellers to confirm they are happy to postpone auction of the land to allow a discussion with the community about options for purchasing the land.
Share your views
We have met twice since that first meeting to discuss our options and agree a way forward – with a first step being to undertake a community survey to understand the views of as many Bridge of Allan residents as possible. The survey will be launching soon and we hope you take a few minutes to give us your views. The survey will seek views about current and possible future use of the land, and options for funding a purchase. Some community groups have expressed an interest in using some of the land – we need to understand how residents feel about this.
A community purchase of the land ensures that it can remain as a public open space, which is in line with the current planning framework for the area through the Local Development Plan. We are also starting work on the development of a Local Place Plan for the area, which will give the Council a clear direction from the Bridge of Allan community on our priorities for our local community.
Do you have the skills to help?
A small group of interested residents, with support from a group of Community Councillors, have continued to meet and explore options for the purchase with a view to sourcing funding and offering on the land. While we have enthusiasm and commitment in the group, we don’t have all the professional knowledge, skills and experience that will be needed. Input from wider residents and those with that expertise is welcome as this process develops.
As a resident of Bridge of Allan I love this area and so have kids and dogs. I look at what Dunblane have done both at Holmehill and the Orchard at the Laighills and would love someone like this rather than the non management of the small woodland here. We have often come across the deer here,
This is important amenity land for Bridge of Allan residents and visitors. When we had a dog it was a regular walking route, especially as it conveniently connects to the Mine Wood.
My expertise is mostly financial and commercial – reasonably good at writing reports, preparing powerpoint presentations, public speaking etc. If I can help let me know
A much loved and used piece of open land which is the only area of accessible flat land north of Henderson Street. It is a real wildlife corridor and not subject to the flooding other area have so can be used all year. Children playing, dog walkers, people meeting, yoga classes, Guides to name a few who use it. Always someone around. It is good ideas are being put forward
Evening. Is anyone able to provide an update what the latest plans for this land are? Many thanks
Replying to David: we are conducting a survey (going live tomorrow) to find out community views. The vendor has given us a deadline for submission of bids by 27th March. Much to be done in meantime. More updates soon. Inga.
Many thanks Inga. Will look out for survey.
I support the protection of the site from development ie the building of fixed structures such as club houses or equipment huts. I also think that it should be maintained as an open space as now and not broken up into plots or allowed to go wild as was tried some years ago with disastrous results. I am too old to engage in heavy physical work but am willing to help out with finance for grass cutting for example