Meetings will discuss city's open spaces

A SERIES of public meetings are to be held to gather views on a new strategy to improve the quality of "open space" in the Capital.

Recommendations in the new blueprint include creating a series of new public parks and opening up underused cemeteries to the public.

It is the first time in 40 years that a plan for open space – described as all parts of an urban area except private and shared residential gardens and agricultural land – has been produced.

Councillor Robert Aldridge, environment leader at the city council, said: "Edinburgh is fortunate to have many wonderful parks and green spaces, and in fact approximately 50 per cent of the city is open space.

"I strongly encourage residents to give us their views during the consultation period."

The first public meeting is at the Braid Centre off Morningside Road on April 20 at 6:30pm, followed by another at the City Chambers on April 21, also at 6:30pm.

Full details of the 12 events are available on the city council's website www.edinburgh.gov.uk.