A 10-year management plan for the maintenance and development of Gala Policies has identified potential improvements to make the woodland area more accessible and significantly improve biodiversity.
Details of the improvement plan
The Plan, which has been developed in close collaboration with the local community and users of the site, sets out our management vision and aspirations for the woodland between 2025 and 2035.
Detailed within it are key points designed to maximise the enjoyment of visitors to the area whilst ensuring the promotion of greater biodiversity. These include:
- Take action to restore the woodlands, pond and grassland and maximise the biodiversity of the site for the benefit of local habitats and wildlife
- Make improvements to facilities for the benefit of the local community and visitors including upgraded paths, more amenity grass and improved seating
- Engage with and support the existing network of dedicated volunteers by establishing a ‘friends of’ group to manage volunteering efforts and expand upon the current schedule of community activities
Next steps
The improvement works laid out in the plan will be largely dependent on raising external funds through fundraising and grant money. We have already started the process of applying for funding and will be exploring all funding streams available to it.
Some work within the community had already commenced in recent weeks with SBC supporting several classes at Galashiels Academy in their volunteering activities at the Policies including litter picks and managing the spread of Rhododendron in two areas of the woodland.
More information
You can read the full Gala Policies Management Plan in full here.
Councillor John Greenwell, Executive Member for Roads & Public Space Development
“Gala Policies is an outstanding natural asset and is undoubtedly a very popular greenspace area which is well used by locals and visitors alike. It serves as a haven for all manner of wildlife and lends itself to a variety of recreational, educational and nature-based activities.
“Our ambition is to ensure that the woodland is a well-cared for, vibrant community greenspace that strikes a balance between providing suitable facilities and opportunities for visitors whilst at the same time allowing biodiversity to flourish.
“This Management Plan sets out exactly how this can be achieved over the next 10 years with improvements made to both the facilities on offer and the natural landscape within it.
“It’s important to note that whilst these improvements have been identified, they can only be carried out if funding is sourced. We will be working to access all funding streams available to us as well as supporting existing volunteers in efforts to fundraise to make these enhancements possible.”