I was delighted to be asked by Share Scotland to formally open their new and improved, fully accessible garden for their service users at Dunlaw Wynd.

Work began here in April 2018 and has taken just over a year to the official opening today. This has been a dramatic makeover involving knocking through walls to create wheelchair access, building raised wooden planters to prevent any risk of falling and the installation of a ramp and pathway with handrail leading to the summer house and grassed area on the upper level.

For this huge task, Share Scotland sought the support of offenders who were subjected to being on a Community Payback Order and together have created a space which aims to improve the lives and opportunities of service users by giving them a safe open area where they can relax and socialise.

It was a pleasure to meet those behind the project and hear first-hand from residents the positive impact this garden will have on their lives. Well done to all involved in creating this beautiful garden.

Gordon, who manages the Community Payback Orders team joined me in cutting the ribbon.