CRAIG Hoy, a Conservative MSP from South Scotland, has recently met with members of the Energise Galashiels Trust to discuss regeneration work to the town centre.
The South Scotland MSP presented the group with a framed copy of a Parliamentary motion which he lodged to the Scottish Parliament congratulating the group for winning the Creative Community Award at the Scotland Loves Local Awards.
The group’s Vibrant Gala Plan also won the Improving Scotland’s Places Award at the Scotland’s Regeneration Forum Awards 2023.
Commenting on the visit, Craig Hoy MSP said: “Energise Galashiels has made some fantastic strides in improving and regenerating the town centre of Galashiels, including through the installation of murals and improved utility of retail space in the town centre.
“I look forward to supporting the Trust in their efforts to continue the enhancement of the town centre. With future funding likely to be challenging I will also engage with various bodies to ensure their achievements are recognised and supported."
Ian Dalglesh (Chair) and Angela Crow (Manager) of the Energise Galashiels Trust said: “All of those involved with Energise Galashiels Trust (EGT) over the last 9-10 years have worked tirelessly on various projects to make Galashiels a more vibrant place for locals and visitors.
“Winning the “Creative Town” award at Scotland’s Town Partnership awards ceremony last month, and the “Most Improved Place” category at the 25th SURF awards ceremony this month, is recognition of the combined efforts of the many volunteers who have given their time, passion and commitment over that period.
“The last 3-4 years, with funding support from South of Scotland Enterprise and Scottish Borders Council, have seen EGT deliver projects such as the Galashiels Heartlands of the Borders digital platforms, shopfront improvements, property transformation grants, community events, murals and sculpture placements, linked to the Tapestry Way Study, which were all instrumental in securing both awards for the town.
“EGT are delighted to have received both awards and will continue working on, and supporting, projects such as the Town Team and the Business Improvement District (BID) to make our town even better.”
The motion submitted by Mr Hoy, S6M-11588, read: “That the Parliament congratulates Energise Galashiels on winning Scotland Loves Local’s Creative Community Award 2023; understands that Energise Galashiels is responsible for engaging with the local community to develop a more vibrant, welcoming and confident community; further understands that the trust has worked with members of the community to design artwork for pole banners to decorate the town centre and install several pieces of artwork in business premises throughout the town, and thanks volunteers from Energise Galashiels for their work in improving Galashiels.”
