Guerrilla Gardening

Local Conservative candidate, Alex Johnstone MSP writes about his local Social Action Project in Banchory:

“I headed a team of twenty five Conservative Party campaigners as they gathered in the West Aberdeenshire & Kincardine town of Banchory on Saturday morning to participate in the constituency's first Social Action project. In less than perfect conditions, local Conservatives braved the drizzle and were joined by former Member of Parliament George Kynoch and candidates from neighbouring constituencies, Alberto Costa, (Angus) and Ross Thompson, (Gordon) who are planning similar projects.

“We gathered litter and cleared overgrown pathways which lead on to the 'Deeside Way' to the East of the town.  The popular local walk is widely used, not only by residents and dog walkers, but visitors to the area also enjoy the amenity.  Following a generally warm summer however, coupled with higher than average rain, access has been made difficult by the greater than normal growth of nettles, brambles and a number of overhanging branches; a situation made worse by recent high winds.

"Reflecting afterwards, I have been contacted by a number of constituents who enjoy the natural amenity of this area, but who are concerned that access to it has become increasingly restricted by overgrown bushes, nettles and other undergrowth along some access paths.  Having seen the success of 'guerrilla gardeners' across the country, as individuals increasingly take responsibility for improving the communities that they live and work in, we hope that others will be encouraged to take similar direct action where appropriate."

"Another pleasant aspect of the mornings work was that it coincided with one of the times when many people use the paths and I welcomed the chance to chat with them and hear about the use they make of the area. Every one we met was very supportive and encouraging. We also met a large number of very friendly dogs who seemed to be highly entertained by the unexpected extra activity they encountered on their morning walk!"

"I have long been an advocate of community participation and positive citizenship, and rather than simply writing letters asking for action to be taken, we decided to go out and do it ourselves and  I am delighted by the number of people who have volunteered to assist.  What we are doing is all about accepting responsibility for the environment and the local quality of life - it can't always be someone else's job. That is why local Conservatives are rolling their sleeves up and do their bit to improve the environment right here in Banchory."