The family business, Bernard Hunter, recently applied for planning permission for a community hub, including: a GP practice, office space, a community hall, shop space and a purpose-built archery centre for the fantastic Drum Field Archers.

Despite unanimous public support for the application, city planners recommended it for refusal. Last month the planning committee agreed a visit to the proposed site ahead of any decision. More than 600 local people have now pledged their support for the proposals, and I hope the planning committee will recognise the enormous benefits this will have for Gilmerton and the wider area.

There is already lots of housebuilding going on in the area and I believe this proposal has the potential to service these new residents. That is why I have backed the campaign all the way and will continue to work closely with Bernard Hunter to see these excellent plans come to fruition.