We discussed the cycle hub & pump track in Stow which is proving to be very popular, attracting people from Stow & the wider area. We compared the different aspects of our communities & considered our options to develop similar schemes in Duns. The lead at Stow Disrupters gave a very thorough talk about how the local schools are involved in environmental projects on a weekly basis which is something we are taking back to our contacts at Duns Primary School. The learning exchange benefited all participants by building solid relationships that will enable future dialogue.

Learning Outcomes

• There are a number of empty properties in Duns which are of interest to several community led organisations in the town. We want to gain an understanding of what would be required to take ownership of an empty building and turn it into a sustainable community asset by learning about the Stow Station Building project.
• The Duns & District Local Place Plan indicated a desire from the community for an e-bile scheme. We are keen to learn how such a scheme works in Stow to see if it might be possible for Greener Duns to take the lead on developing a scheme in Duns.
• We are currently working with Duns Primary School on a number of small projects and would like to find out more about the relationship between Stow Community Trust and Stow Primary School through the Stow Disrupters project.

"Since arranging our visit to Stow there have been discussions about the use & Community Asset Transfers of a number of council owned buildings in Duns. Stow Community Trust shared their experiences of acquiring the old station building for use as a community asset which has been very difficult. With this background it seems the decision to acquire a dedicated building for Greener Duns is premature at this time."