Vacant Land Feasibility Study

In 2010,  ELGT was awarded funding to undertake a feasibility study on the potential for temporary greening of vacant and derelict land in Edinburgh. The study assessed sites from the Scottish Vacant & Derelict Land Survey and other underused sites which occupied strategic positions within the area, and identify what actions may be taken to achieve suitable greening measures, which are fundable and maintainable.

The funding was awarded by the Central Scotland Green Network Development Fund, via the Forestry Commission Scotland, and resulted in the identification and development of 8 key sites within the area, drawing up a plan of action for each site, including appropriate measures for greening, taking into consideration funding options, community engagement, land condition, ownership, any future development plans. The study drew on lessons learnt elsewhere in the UK and explored successful greening projects in other urban settings.

In principle, options for temporary greening may include the following:

• annual wildflower seeding
• ground preparation, seeding of grass or wildflowers, treeplanting and minor landscaping
• community market gardens or allotments
• short rotation coppice
• plant or tree nurseries to produce stock for other sites
• composting
• basic work to enable sites to regenerate naturally

The project's key aims are ultimately to increase the number and quality of biodiverse sites within the City and to develop a strategic model for the effective temporary greening of sites, which can be rolled out to other situations.  The study was completed at the end of March 2011 and the Trust is now working to follow up some of the sites identified with the Council, developers and landowners.