The Douglas Valley Advisory Group (DVAG) is a constituted group, representing Coalburn, Douglas, Glespin, Lesmahagow and Rigside, currently comprising of representatives from each of the Community Councils/Tenants and Residents Association. It is currently seeking additional representation from each of the five communities in the form of one individual per settlement.

Facilitated by South Lanarkshire Council (SLC), the DVAG has been set up following the creation of the Hagshaw Energy Cluster Development Framework, focussed around the cluster of seven windfarms near Hagshaw Hill, including Cumberhead, Dalquhandy, Douglas West, Galawhistle, Hagshaw Hill, Hagshaw Hill Extension and Nutberry.

Chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Robert Brown, said: “The Development Framework sets out an ambitious vision for how a more strategic and collaborative approach to renewable energy development can help us achieve a Just Transition to Net Zero.

“It identifies opportunities which will enhance the area, including the creation of a Regional Renewable Energy Hub, community transport initiatives, active travel and recreational routes, restored peatlands, enhanced historic and urban environment, a tourism strategy, skilled green energy jobs and improved recreational opportunities.

“Group members will collectively act as consultee on the investment of REF funds placed inside the Douglas Valley Initiative programme.

“Applications are encouraged from any community member regardless of age, experience or background, and welcomed from those who consider themselves to represent a protected characteristic as defined under the Equality Act 2010.”

Applications to sit on the DVAG can be made by submitting an email, outlining in under 300 words, 1) Which community you propose to represent, 2) What you can bring to the DVAG, and 3) Why you want to join the DVAG, to Sarah O’Sullivan, Economic Development Officer: Douglas Valley Initiative, at sarah.o’sullivan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk by 9am on Monday 6 March.