Greener Leith

Those of you who participated in our Leith - Portobello Cycle Ride last September will probably be wondering what the point of it all was. We're pleased to be able to provide you with an exciting update on our campaign to improve the cycle link between Leith and Portobello.

As well as garnering the support of Cllrs Child, Munro and Lang, it transpires that we are not the only ones to have noticed how near (and yet so far) we are from having a good quality usable cycle link between Leith and Portobello.  Three years ago, SPOKES volunteers were responsible for the construction of the dirt ramp (that is obviously well used to this day) from the railway embankment down to Seafield Street, and they also organised for improvements to the pathway that runs between the railway and sewerage works. Another great example of volunteers making a valuable contribution to improving Leith's open spaces.  

SPOKES are keen to support our campaign and we're delighted to announce that they've pledged £200 to support signage on the route, if we successfully manage to improve the access ramps at the Leith Links end, and at the Seafield end. Furthermore, we've also had a message of support from SUSTRANS.

Greener Leith has pledged to work with the City of Edinburgh Council to seek match funding to improve the route - however the costs of these improvements are quite large for a wee voluntary group, so it's unlikely that Greener Leith could fund this work on its own. Council officers have responded postiviely to our campaign and they've been out to assess the works required and are in the process of costing the key improvements we've highlighted (i.e the two access ramps). At the moment we're waiting with baited breath for a report from them which will hopefully propose a way forwards. Greener Leith has been promised this report in time for our January meeting on the 28th, so if you want an update on this campaign, or to help us move it forwards, you are welcome to attend.