Glasgow City Council has penned an agreement with the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN), it has been announced.

The deal will benefit local communities within the city through the improvement of the cultural, environmental, physical and social wellbeing of the area.

The CSGN is said to be Europe's largest greenspace initiative which aims to transform Central Scotland into a place where the environment can add value to the economy, in addition to enriching people's lives by its quality.

Glasgow City Council has signed up to the CSGN's Local Authority Concordat, which recognises its commitment to formally help deliver the vision of the CSGN and highlights the vital role council's will have in helping to achieve these aims.

The local authority has also welcomed the Scottish Government's commitment to the CSGN, as expressed through the network's inclusion in Scotland's 3rd National Planning Framework, as well as the opportunities the CSGN has to offer.

-- Advertisement --

Keith Geddes, Chair of the Central Scotland Green Network Partnership Board, explained: "In order to achieve the CSGN aims of delivering a high quality green network that will meet the Scottish Government's environmental, social and economic objectives, we need to share resources, best practice and new thinking.

"Our Local Authority Concordat represents a collective understanding that working in partnership will ensure policies and resources are aligned and will in turn achieve the optimum results for all parties involved.

"I hugely welcome the fact that Glasgow City Council has come on board and we look forward to building on our relationship to create a lasting legacy for the future."

Bailie Liz Cameron, Chair of Glasgow's Green Year 2015 and Glasgow City Council's Executive Member for Economic Development, added: "Green spaces are extremely valuable assets which not only provide homes for nature but also improve air quality and aid people's sense of well-being, giving them a place to take free exercise and safeguard their physical and mental health.

"Joining the CSGN fits perfectly with Glasgow City Council's sustainability agenda and signing this concordat could not be more timely as next year will be Green Year 2015. Twelve months of celebrations and activities are being organised to encourage everyone to get involved with sustainability projects.

"We are delighted to be working in partnership with other CSGN members to promote a sustainable, green economy and to safeguard the environment for future generations."

More information about the Central Scotland Green Network can be found here.

(JP/MH)