Superb momentum for Keep Scotland Beautiful campaign

A ground-breaking ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ initiative is gaining more and more support in Scotland from enthusiastic individuals who are keen to see their communities make the most of clean and green local spaces.

Launched by Keep Scotland Beautiful, registration for 2015 is now open as the charity showcases evidence of how dramatic an impact civic pride can have upon local environments and looks to empower more individuals on bettering their surroundings.

This year, the initiative has been boosted by extra funding from the ScottishPower Foundation, which has enabled the charity to enhance the experience of contributors with communications support, online data sharing and networking. Successful projects will also be entered into an awards ceremony.

Chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, Derek Robertson, said: “It’s Your Neighbourhood is all about supporting community participation, environmental responsibility and gardening achievement. Evidence from participants in previous years has demonstrated transformational benefits to local communities.

“Keep Scotland Beautiful is delighted that the ScottishPower Foundation has awarded funding to us in 2015/16 to allow us to further increase the support we are able to provide to projects in 2015. Year on year, projects coming forward have shown incredible imagination and commitment – I fully expect this year to be no different.

“If you, or your community group, have an idea, or are embarking upon a project that will improve your local community environment, take one small step and make sure you sign up before the closing date at the end of April 2015.”

The aim of the campaign is to target neglected sites, whether in cities, towns or villages, before turning them into cleaner and tidier places that locals can enjoy as new.

Ann Loughrey, trustee and executive officer at the ScottishPower Foundation said: “The Foundation is committed to protecting and enhancing the environment and working positively with local communities.

“We work with truly inspirational organisations and the charitable work they do is admirable. We are delighted to be supporting It’s Your Neighbourhood; a universally well-received initiative that brings together local groups who are making a positive impact in their communities.”

Interested groups can register for It’s Your Neighbourhood at keepscotlandbeautiful.org/iyn