Graham

Douglas Action Group was set up in response to concerns, problems and issues expressed by the people in  Douglas. The first thing the action group did was a survey within the community to identify these concerns.

Four problems were identified; litter, graffiti, vandalism and dog fouling. A litter pick was arranged at the Community Park adjacent to Douglas Community Centre. Free food, litter pickers, gloves, and black bags  were provided, and other organisations were invited and participated.

Scottish Fire Service provided a fire engine and crew, Dundee City Council Countryside Rangers ran an  insect hunt, Urban Releaf provided information about what they can do for green spaces within the city and  Friends of Linlathlen helped with advice on organising litter picks. There was also a stone painting activity and information about Douglas Action Group and other groups within Douglas Community Centre.

It was a grey, cold, damp autumn Sunday and we expected only a few people, if anyone at all, to turn up.  We were pleasantly surprised when 30 very enthusiastic volunteers, including several children, turned up  and set to work for a few hours, and filled numerous bags.

With the success of the litter pick our next target is the graffiti.We plan to use street art, and engage an  artist. At present we are fact finding, researching communities in the city who have successfully used  other street artists in the past, such as Stobswell Forum.