Balerno Church's Green Field Dilemma

0:00St. Mungo's Church in Balerno wants to build a big modern church on a green field right across from the local high school. The spot holds about 350 people for services, plus offices, a kitchen, and extra rooms. They've outgrown their tiny village spot and have been using the high school for years now. That field was donated to the church decades ago, but locals see it as key green space in the village. Right now, a group called rabble rig riding for the disabled uses it for horse events with folks who need the help. No formal plans are filed yet. The church is still talking with the council. Villagers are pushing back hard, saying it'll kill off that open area and worsen parking on the narrow bridge road. Most churchgoers only about 40% from Balerno Drive in, from places like East Calder and Livingston. Some worry about traffic near the school, and even tossed around claims of conversion therapy, which the church flat out denies. Church leaders emit their evangelical and traditional, no-same-sex weddings there.

1:02But they say the fields mostly just for those few horses, and they plan a design that fits the rural vibe boosting biodiversity and opening it up. More for the community. No huge parking lot, though. They'd stick to council rules on green sites. Tots with the community council have happened twice, and local MP Dr. Scott Arthur backs the growth of faith groups like this. Expect a planning application this spring, so residents can weigh in then. Keep an eye on how Balerno balances its green heart with growing needs. You've been listening to Edinburgh News today, AI-powered local news.