The Water of Leith Conservation Trust and The Edinburgh Wheels Project CIC are leading the way on introducing skills training for young people, but they need some help.
Set on the banks of Coalie Park, at Great Junction Street, “The Dock” will be a multifunctional sculptural microcosm, promoting biodiversity and will give young people the space to move freely and build their community back.
The result will be that Leith’s young people will be equipped with the tools, skills and connections to thrive in the face of economic and environmental adversity.
Young people who fall into the 12.6% reported by the Labour Force Survey who are not in full time education or employment and may have been denied a fair chance to a future will now have that chance.
This project will give locals the opportunity to learn hands on with tried and tested concrete form and under the guidance of seasoned skatepark builders, Odyssey Scotland.
The candidates will undergo a training programme supported by contractors, Balfour Beatty who will offer employment opportunities, links to further experience and full Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) certification elevating the aspiring workers to be tool ready and site ready by the end of the 12 week course.
A Gaudi-esque mosaic seating area designed by local artist Campbell Barclay will be created using found material. It should in this way shine a light on the local industrial history and the natural beauty of the river. The materials used will be the result of several river and community beach cleans which people are encouraged to come and participate in, harbouring a sense of place in The Dock.
And in a bid to tackle increasing food prices there are plans to use irrigation tactics to nurture a vertical garden in which reused cobblestones will host fresh greens for the local community and local residents.
The project has already raised 65% of the funding but is currently reaching out for more support.
This is the donation link.
Or scan the QR code below.
https://www.waterofleith.org.uk/coalie-park-project/
