It takes a lot of courage to stand up to wealthy landowners and protect the remaining green spaces in your community. Annmarie Kirkland, a resident and community leader in Cardowan, embodies this fighting spirit.
In Scotland, the majority of land is owned by private individuals and companies, leaving communities with little control over their own surroundings. However, over the past 30 years, community land ownership has gained momentum in rural Scotland, thanks to the 2003 Land Reform Act. This legislation allows community groups to express interest in purchasing land or buildings, giving them the first opportunity to buy if the owner decides to sell. In 2016, this right was extended to urban areas as well.
Glasgow and Clyde Valley have become hubs for urban community ownership, with 50 active projects aimed at improving local neighborhoods. Despite the positive impact of community ownership, many groups face challenges due to bureaucratic red tape and a lack of support from local authorities.
Heather Yearwood, a development officer at Community Land Scotland, works closely with community groups interested in acquiring land. She witnesses their potential, talent, and frustration with the complex processes involved in community ownership. Many of these groups rely solely on volunteers and struggle to navigate funding applications and administrative tasks.
Support from local authorities varies across different regions, with some areas more enthusiastic about community ownership than others. Kirkland’s group in Cardowan faced initial setbacks when dealing with North Lanarkshire Council, highlighting the challenges that community groups encounter in urban areas.
Despite these obstacles, groups like the Inchinnan Development Trust, led by Maggie Morrison, have successfully acquired and revitalized community spaces in urban areas. Morrison emphasizes the need for greater community involvement in the planning process and believes that a cultural shift is necessary to empower communities to have a seat at the table.
Community ownership initiatives like the Cardowan Community Meadow and the Inchinnan Development Trust demonstrate the resilience and determination of local heroes working to preserve green spaces and improve their neighborhoods. While the journey towards community ownership may be challenging, these groups are committed to creating positive change in their communities and challenging the status quo. Through their efforts, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and community-driven approach to land ownership and development in Scotland.