The council held their December meeting in Currie High School, and began proceedings with a tour of the new school facilities, guided by Depute Head Teacher Mrs Janis Craig. The smell of new furniture and the extra space available are most promising. The education authority have certainly improved the school almost beyond recognition.
There WILL be a Pelican Crossing on Lanark Road West near Dolphin Avenue, to the relief of pupils and other pedestrians crossing from the bus stop. This is the successful outcome to a campaign fought by many local bodies, including the council. The bus stop on the north side of Lanark Road West also seems likely to be moved eastwards away from the junction. There is no money for a crossing near the Health Centre in this financial year, however.
Bus Route 66 will in future be served by buses designed for easy access by disabled and infirm passengers, having lower floor levels and specially trained crews. Bus stops may also be altered to enable easier entry to the buses. Congratulations to SMT!
The footpath in Riccarton Mains Road is newly tarmacked, and, following representations by Terry Gatenby, we hope the old well will reappear from underneath this covering.
The City Council has resolved to eradicate Giant Hogweed, although although it may persist on private land.
November was a quiet month, with only £1300 worth of windows broken (in Scotmid and Currie HS), 3 cars stolen, 2 housebreakings and 2 cars broken into.
Constable Ritchie Adams recommends the following accessories for any bike bought this year: skidlid (formerly known as a helmet), lights and lockable chain.
He also suggests we should pop in on any elderly neighbours to spread good cheer and make sure they are not freezing cold.
The police caravan will reappear soon, weather permitting, and mounted police will shortly be patrolling in Currie.
The Park and Ride facility at Hermiston is planned to include the triangle of field bounded on the north by Calder Road from the Riccarton Mains Road junction to the roundabout over the by-pass and the west by Riccarton Mains Road as far as the Heriot-Watt roundabout
The council decided to object to a proposed hot food takeaway next to McColl's in Bryce Road, and to reverse its previous support for housing development at Kinleith Mill, because of new access restrictions caused by concrete blocks on the roadway.
Hermiston residents are debating whether to apply for conservation area status, with all that that implies.
Kate Smith, who is employed by the Education Department to work on the Lanark road Youth Project, spoke to the council about her plans and hopes for 12 - 17 year olds in the Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Baberton Mains area. The programme of activities she has planned include a day trip, a weekend circus workshop and a rock concert with local and professional bands. In January Kate is moving from Currie High School to Currie Youth Club. She has set up a management committee and is looking for funds from government and other bodies, with the aim of providing a place for young people to socialise and enjoy activities.
This will be on Saturday 3 May, so keep that date clear. Local organisations will be very welcome to take part in any way.