Today I raised the importance of protecting the heritage and greenbelt in Central Scotland with the Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Secretary.
I gave the example of the stunning woodland at Calderbank where the Monklands Canal runs through as an ideal location for a heritage or nature trail. The Cabinet Secretary agreed that there are economic benefits from creating heritage trails and asked me to keep her abreast of any developments in my proposal.
You can rest assured that I will; we need to keep this beautiful greenbelt safe for the local community to enjoy. The Cabinet Secretary replied saying leisure recreation is good for economic stimulation, and I couldn't agree more. Leisure recreation also provides huge benefits to mental and physical well-being to the local community.
You can watch our exchange above.
I will be leading a Member's Debate on the proposed development of the land between Calderbank and Carnbroe in Parliament next week. This will take place Thursday 8th March at 12.45pm, immediately after First Minister's Questions.
If you wish to attend the debate individual tickets can be booked from 1st March.
You can book your ticket by either phoning 0131 348 5200 or online at http://www.parliament.scot/visitandlearn/24232.aspx