Hello Dufftown & District,
I hope this newsletter finds you well and you are enjoying the last of the Summer warmth. I wanted to give you a round up of the last month from DDCA HQ and a look ahead at what is coming soon.
Thanks to the generous support from HITRANS we have been able to offer free Ebike hire to the local community which, has also included a led ride. This has been very popular and has been great to see so many of you enjoying the bikes. We have now expanded this service to include long term hire for the quieter months. As the demand was so high we have confirmed 3 blocks of 3 week loans to 12 riders. All participants are hoping to use the bikes for commute and pleasure, hopefully creating some lifestyle changes through active travel. The bike lockers have been ordered for the park to offer more flexibility to pick up and drop off the bikes so, it will soon be very easy to explore Dufftown by bike. We will look to do another block of long term hires around Feb/March time and then daily hire will still be available until the end of March. If you haven’t been in touch to book a bike there is still plenty of time!
We continue to make plans to utilise our award from the Robertson Trust which will allow us to expand our impact in the community. With this funding we hope to launch a series of new community initiatives. The priorities being the Community Food Growing Scheme, Warm Spaces and Back to work Skills and Support Program. We would be eager to hear any ideas you have to shape these projects. Your input is always gratefully received and if you can spare any time to volunteer with us please get in touch to find out more.
Over the coming months we will continue working on the Clock Tower renovation. We are currently working with our Architect, Angela and her project team to submit the Building Warrant as well as introducing the project to potential funders.
The DDCA is still recruiting Trustees and a Treasurer for The Board, we are a friendly relaxed group who meet on the last Monday of the month at the Shand Centre- the next meeting is the 29th September and we are just in the process of confirming the date for our AGM. We will share this with you shortly.
Green fingered helpers and experts for the Food Growing Scheme and additional volunteers for other projects and events are essential to support our plans so, please get in touch with us on the email below if you are able to spare a little time. Spread to the word and invite neighbours, friends and family to get involved or become members. We need the passion and support of the community to strengthen our impact in the Dufftown and District Area.
Please share any ideas you have- we would love to hear from you!
aileen@dufftowncommunity.co.uk
Looking forward to another busy month ahead!
