Edinburgh volunteers, businesses and artists have transformed a derelict old Bothy.
Alongside Friends of Burdiehouse Burn Valley Park, residents worked together to paint a stunning new mural.
The mural was designed by Kate George but at various stages the Edinburgh artist asked the community for their involvement so that the mural could represent the area as best it could.
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The Bothy was purchased around 2019 through a community asset transfer in what is believed to have been the first of its kind in Edinburgh.
The asset transfer is said to have been achieved through multiple fundraising efforts and the funds were not only used to purchase the building but also for major refurbishments work on a new roof, windows, doors, toilet and storage space.
The project was supported by The Mushroom Trust, Action Earth, Liberton and Gilmerton community fund and One City.
Jamie Thin, who works at Edinburgh University but joined the Friends during lockdown after he had taken part in regular clean the burn events, said that the project has been amazing for the community.
He said: ““We have recently painted the Bothy with an eye-catching mural on the outside. The mural was designed by artist Kate George and we consulted with the local community about the designs and made several changes. After feedback from neighbours on Gilmert Dykes street we decided to use more plain colours on the side facing the street and we also used trees and leaves on the side facing the burn. We have also painted the blue of the water and added trees and birds and various points.
“As well as painting the bothy, which was a great effort by the team of volunteers from the local community, we have also finished the mural under the bridge besides Gilmerton dykes street.
“I was painting alongside two families with kids who were all enjoying taking part. And I think it is important that we give our kids a stake in their community. In years time they will walk past and take pride in the fact that they helped to create something wonderful.
“I believe this is the future for communities wanting better for their local park. The council budget is shrinking each year for the greenspace maintenance teams and it just means that community ownership will become the norm.
“We invite everyone to come and visit the park and enjoy a walk along the burn and check out the murals. There is a wealth of wildlife here as Burdiehouse park acts as the perfect corridor from the Pentlands into Edinburgh - we have had a few visitors spot otters and herrings in the past.
“It is fantastic when the community can come together to make improvements together.“
Since its transformation, The Bothy has been used by groups like Children 1st, Tiphereth (learning disabilities) and Liberton Scouts and Guides, with more groups anticipated to utilise the space.
The Friends also say that they will run a full programme of monthly activity mornings and guided walks. To learn more follow us on Facebook or Twitter.
