Canongate Community Forum (CCF) has been successful in securing funding from SCARF which helps organisations that focus on improving communities, by supporting involvement in local action.  It is provided by Communities Scotland and managed by the Scottish Community Development Centre.  

Find out more at the link below.http://www.communitiesscotland.gov.uk/stellent/groups/public/documents/webpages/cs_006402.hcsp#TopOfPage 

In the New Year the CCF will be running a drop-in ideas shop, where workshops and events will be held, everyone will be encouraged to get involved whether they live, work or have an interest in the Canongate and Edinburgh’s Old Town.” If you are not yet a member, we would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to join and get involved during 2008. Membership form at this link to print out.http://www.eh8.org.uk/sites/eh8.org.uk/files/CCF_mem_form.pdf 

A get together of members in January 2008 is to take place, details tbc.  Memberships to be renewed for 2008 come January (you can join by post, or in person on the 15th or at the future meeting in January) We would like your ideas on what you would like to see as an outcome of the project and we need volunteers for the following. 

You are welcome to do what it is you are interested in and comfortable doing, although it is an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and discover talents you didn’t know you had All input is voluntary though normal expenses will be covered where appropriate.

1. The shop itself will need staffed, welcoming folk, helping with displays, teas, coffees etc...general admin etc It is hoped it will be in the immediate vicinity of the Canongate
2. Publicity, leaflets, posters, press, radio, TV, the web
3. Information gathering, will include in the shop, computer searches, networking, on street surveys, etc
4. Filming, photography, writing and documenting process and findings
5. Local businesses being brought in to be involved
6. Helping out with events and workshops

This list is not exhaustive, so do get thinking and jot down your thoughts and ideas.  Looking at what is good in the area, its downsides, what is missing, what could be improved will all be explored. Alternatives to developer led regeneration? What Edinburgh World Heritage status means to you, the city, the area, your home?  

 All the Caltongate Planning Applications are due to be considered at a special hearing of the council’s planning committee on the 6th February where the CCF will be among the other many heritage and community organisations giving deputations to why Caltongate is not right for this World Heritage Site. We would like to take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Festive Season and hope to see you in 2008 as part of this positive community led project