Elected Member Briefing - Update on the future use of designated open space at North Muirton and Potterhill Gardens estates

About this briefing note

Report by: Elaine Ritchie, Senior Service Manager, Housing

Date: 7 June 2023

Subject: Update on the future use of designated open space at North Muirton and Potterhill Gardens estates

Responsible Officer: Helen Hatfield, Project Officer, Housing/Communities

Details

Purpose

Following the previous briefing note issued in January 2023, this briefing note provides an update following the residents' consultation, and a working group meeting held on 17 May 2023.

Briefing Information 

In February 2023 paper copies of a survey were delivered to each household in North Muirton and Potterhill, and residents were also given the opportunity to complete the survey online if preferred. 

In addition, drop-in sessions were organised for the residents of both estates. 

The response rate (North Muirton 30% and Potterhill Gardens 45%) suggests that the majority of residents on both estates have no strong opinion, whilst the respondents:

• Overwhelmingly believe that the open plan design of the estates is no longer necessary. However, only a minority would buy or rent the land (if offered).
• That community safety is not an issue. However, that various topics should be addressed
• That various features and amenities are desirable.

The full survey results can be found in the following links:

North Muirton

Potterhill Gardens (please note this link has been temporarily disabled please contact hccinfo@pkc.gov.uk if you would like a copy of the survey results)

After consideration of the results, options to resolve the encroachments were discussed at the working group meeting held in May. Whilst the options discussed all had some benefits, these were often outweighed by disadvantages. 

To help identify the most suitable option(s), it was agreed to look at the future use of the land first, as this could result in either additional options or amendments to those already discussed.

A further meeting to discuss the future use of the land, together with residents' feedback, has been arranged for 16^th June 2023.

We will keep you fully updated as we move forward.