THE VILLAGE of Balerno has been transformed into a winter wonderland this Christmas thanks to a generous donation from an upmarket homebuilder.
The Edinburgh suburb is lit up bigger and brighter than ever this year, with an additional 12 foot tree positioned at the south end of the village’s Main Street.
The festive celebrations also see the return of last year’s much-loved market square tree – standing at an impressive 15 foot and making use of a custom-built steel stand made by local blacksmith, Colin Barr.
There are also a number of smaller Norwegian Spruce trees lining shopfronts along the pedestrianised Main Street.
In order to help turn the vision of Balerno Community Council into a festive reality, CALA Homes (East) has contributed £600 to cover the costs of the trees and lighting, as well as the bespoke steel tree-stand.
Committed to supporting the local community, this Christmas marks CALA Homes’ second donation towards the town’s festivities.
Richard Henderson, Chair of the Balerno Community Council, said: “We are exceedingly grateful to CALA Homes for once again getting involved with Balerno’s Christmas celebrations.
“We are especially excited to have a second tree at the south end of Main Street this year, allowing us to include even more of the village in the festivities and hopefully increase trade to local businesses along the length of the street.
“The lights were turned on in a special ceremony on Thursday 6th December, with the choir of Dean Park Primary School singing Christmas carols and songs and the switch on performed by senior pupils from the school.
“Last year we had over 500 people turn out to the event, showing just how popular the festive celebrations are with Balerno residents.”
Philip Hogg, Sales and Marketing Director at CALA Homes (East), said: “It is an honour to have contributed towards Balerno’s Christmas celebrations once again – last year’s festivities were truly magical and this year is shaping up to be even better with the addition of a second tree.
“Supporting the communities that are local to our developments has always been a leading priority and, following the launch of our Kingfisher Park and Ravelrig Heights developments, it seemed only right for CALA to get involved with this year’s Christmas celebrations.
“The work of Richard and Balerno Community Council in transforming the town at Christmas is truly incredible.”
CALA Homes (East) has delivered a number of successful sites in the area in recent years – with homes currently available at Kingfisher Park and Ravelrig Heights.
The developer has also donated towards a range of local organisations, including acting as the shirt sponsors for Premiership rugby club, Currie Chieftans, since 2011.
Kingfisher Park features a range of family homes and apartments and is situated towards the east of the village – an ideal balance of semi-rural living suited to a variety of buyers.
Just eight miles from Edinburgh’s city centre, Ravelrig Heights consists of spacious four and five-bedroom properties, offering idyllic family living within easy reach of the city.
To find out more about CALA Homes (East)’s Balerno developments, please visit www.cala.co.uk/balerno.
