BEARSDEN residents have hit out at a bid to transform a popular "sledging slope" into allotments.

East Dunbartonshire Council has announced its move to transform a number of sites across the area as part of its local development plan.

However, locals are up in arms after it was revealed one such site could be the beloved grassy slope Kilmardinny Loch, near to Kilmardinny Avenue.

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While potential plans to change a park in Mosshead's Heather Avenue into a community garden has also been met with backlash.

One resident wrote: "I can't really see the point when most people in the area have access to a garden already?"

Another said: "The green hill is so well used by dog walkers. Another site would be good but not a well used spot like that."

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While one added: "Terrible idea!

"This is a much used space by all the community and this would take it away from the many and give it to a very small number of people."

And, another added: "Allotments on a hill?"

The council is yet to decide which of the sites will be transformed under the plan, with a consultation period due to begin shortly.

However, the Heather Avenue location has already been shortlisted while the the grassy slope is still awaiting assessment.

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In a document detailing the plans, the council said: "The list of potential sites and their recommendations provides a starting point in which community groups can consider on their journey to setting up a community growing space in East Dunbartonshire, from a traditional community garden, civic planting or orchards, to the more innovative approach such as hydroponics and living roofs."

Thomas Glen, the council's depute chief executive for place, neighbourhood and corporate Assets, said: "A number of sites have been identified in the draft Food Growing Strategy - which will inform the new Local Development Plan 2 (LDP2) - as potential community food growing locations. Food growing includes orchards/fruit
trees, community gardens and allotments.

"We are currently consulting with the public on which sites may be included in the final version of the Strategy and working to establish demand for sites in communities across East Dunbartonshire.

"No decision has been taken on the inclusion of any food growing sites in LDP2 at this stage.

"We would encourage anyone with views on potential sites listed in the draft Food Growing Strategy to have a say during the consultation period, which continues until June 9.

"You can submit your views online and/or at a series of drop-in sessions."