Edinburgh progresses with plans for 20-minute neighbourhoods across city

20-minute neighbourhoods are a step closer to becoming reality in Edinburgh, as the city council is asking residents in Gorgie Dalry to share their thoughts on plans.

20-minute neighbourhoods are places where essential facilities and amenities are easily accessible within a 20-minute walk of people’s homes, with walking and cycling routes and public transport available.

Edinburgh City Council has laid out a City Mobility Plan which aims to move away from car dependency, with improved active travel connections in town centres.

Now residents of Gorgie Dalry, a district in the west of the city, have been asked to explain what they currently think about the area and to share their ideas on how it could be improved.

Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: ‘20-minute neighbourhoods are a new way of thinking for Edinburgh and our local town centres and high streets are at the very heart of many people’s local lives, so they are a natural starting point for this exciting strategy.

‘It is clear that these spaces could be much better at serving the daily needs of residents, businesses and other organisations, particularly by being easier for everyone to move around. They should also have identity and purpose, supporting local employment opportunities and providing an inclusive economy.

‘Each neighbourhood in the city is different, with its own unique set of requirements. That’s why it’s so important that local communities participate in this process to help us understand everyone’s needs and make sure their views shape the neighbourhood approach.’

Locals have until January 15 to share their views, with the consultation to run alongside planned road improvement projects in the town centre.

The council is looking to revitalise other areas too, including Leith, Craigmillar, Muirhouse and Queensferry.

There are also plans to look at boosting Portobello, Corsorphine, Stockbridge, Bruntsfield, and Morningside town centres.

Photo by Robert V. Ruggiero