The first of what is hoped will be an ongoing series of meetings between developers and members of the Kilmardinny Westpark action Group (KWAG) to discuss the future of the Kilmardinny Westpark site have taken place.

The meeting was arranged following the Scottish Government Reporter's issuing of in principle consent for the Kilmardinny Westpark development and a meeting in January of developer representatives and Councillors. This initial meeting found that all parties were keen to see further dialogue and wished to provide early opportunities for engagement by the wider community and members of representative groups.

Hosted by East Dunbartonshire Council officers the meeting provided a platform to inform the engagement process for any proposed future development and offered parties the opportunity to discuss their aspirations for the site.

Welcoming the meeting Council Leader Rhondda Geekie commented: “The Council recognises that the Kilmardinny Westpark development proposal has attracted considerable interest within the local community and we are pleased to see developers and members of KWAG begin what we hope will be a process of constructive dialogue. The Council in its role as planning authority will ensure that all statutory consultations are undertaken and further encourage the developers to actively engage and involve the local community. From the first meeting I understand that this is a commitment that the developers are keen to fulfil.”

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The meeting coincides with the launch of the Council's consultation on the future of leisure services within the Bearsden and Milngavie area which will involve a community questionnaire, exit interviews for Allander centre users and a series of focus groups with representatives from local groups.

Following the meeting a spokesperson from KWAG commented: "It was important to have this meeting to establish contact with the developers. Consultation with all sections of the community must be a priority now that planning permission has been granted in principle. There are many issues still to be resolved not least the future of the Allander Leisure Centre. KWAG represents 4 Community Councils, 8 Residents Associations and a number of other groups and individuals. We will make every effort to ensure the views of the public are heard. It is proposed to agree a forum for discussions with the developers."

Representing the developers Alastair White, Managing Director of Cala Homes said: "As we start to prepare the reserved matters application to submit to the Council, we will be actively seeking comments from KWAG, interest groups and the public on our proposals. This meeting was a very positive beginning to that process."

(GK)