Councillors to consider £1 lease for Kinneil Walled Garden in Bo’ness
Elected members will decide on Thursday 13 March 2025 whether to grant Sustainable Thinking Scotland (STS) a 20-year Community Benefit Lease for Kinneil Walled Garden in Bo’ness.
If approved, the proposal would secure the site for community food production, environmental projects, and social initiatives, with a lease set at £1 per year in recognition of the group’s contributions.
STS, which has operated from the site since 2017, has already established key projects, including a Foodbank Farm, a solar-powered Community Hub, and a green waste recycling programme.
If approved, the lease would allow STS to:
- Increase food production by 10% annually
- Create more volunteering and job opportunities
- Expand training and sustainability education programmes for the local community
Paul Kettrick, Head of Investment, Assets and Climate, said:
This proposed lease supports Sustainable Thinking Scotland’s valuable work in the community.
“By securing long-term tenure, they could attract more investment, increase food production, and continue their important environmental and social projects, which benefit both local people and the wider area.
“The lease would also contribute to our Net Zero targets by supporting carbon reduction efforts through biochar production, renewable energy use, and sustainable food growing.
“Additionally, the site could be used for environmental education, helping local schools and community groups learn about sustainability and climate adaptation.
“It is now for Councillors to consider the report and decide if this is the best option for the Walled Garden.
Strong community backing
A 2019 public consultation showed strong community backing for STS, particularly for its work in:
- Providing fresh food to food banks
- Supporting mental health through green spaces
- Delivering environmental projects that benefit the wider area
STS has also partnered with Falkirk Council’s Long-Term Unemployed programme, offering job training and employment opportunities in sustainability-focused industries.
Unlocking future investment
An assessment by Falkirk Council officers concluded that the community benefits outweigh the potential loss of market rent.
A long-term lease could also help STS attract funding from organisations such as the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation, allowing further site improvements and project expansion.