Dundee – A Global City

The One World Centre and Lifelong Learning Dundee at the University of Dundee present Dundee    –   A Global City.

The course will be of 5 sessions which will run on Wednesday evenings beginning on Wednesday 17th April from 6.30pm until 8.30pm – then  each Wednesday evening until 15th May  – so  17th April,  24th April, 1st May, 8th May and 15th May.
This programme introduces us to and explores the many and varied contributions that Dundonians have made and are making to our world.  Using stories from the past we will explore the links we have with others around the globe and consider how our lifestyles can contribute to a fairer, more sustainable and peaceful society

* Think Global – Act Local  … 17th April – Sally Romilly and Clare Fulton  – OWC
What is Global Citizenship?   Why has it developed as an idea?   What makes a Global citizen?  What does it mean for the local person in Dundee?    

* Dahka to Dundee….. 24th April – Alastair Scott Dundee Heritage Trust and   Sandra Thompson   

The jute trade unravelled – highlighting Dundee’s fascinating role.

* Dundonians face war – to fight or not to fight? ….. 1st May – Andrew Jeffrey and Sandy Constable

Looking at our different perspectives on war with  Andrew Jeffrey – author of  ‘This Dangerous Menace: Dundee and the River Tay at War, 1939 to 1945’ (1991) – whose stories will shed new light  on how Dundonians faced up to war.    … and Sandy Constable who shares memories of his father’s relationship to war.

* Dundee women in the World ….  8th May – Mary Henderson, Kate Armstrong and Norma McGovern

Beginning with the ‘four Marys’ we explore the range of Global contributions made by Dundee women.

* Welcoming our new citizens ….. 15th May – Dr Husam Al Waer, senior lecturer in Sustainable Urban Design,   Sally Romilly  and Clare Fulton (OWC)

As Dundee continues to welcome migrants and refugees into the community what are their challenges and our response.

For details from the One World Centre here.


Getting things done – Logie Cemetery #dundeewestend

Several constituents have recently contacted me regarding the condition of Logie Cemetery on Lochee Road north of Balgay Parish Church.   As residents know, the cemetery is very old and long closed to new interments.

At my request, an inspection of the cemetery was undertaken last Friday and the environment manager for the west of the city advised me after this  … “all memorials are in a safe condition either dug in or lying flat.  The ones that remain upright have been found to be stable.”

The Service Manager – Environment – at the City Council has also advised me :

“In an effort to reduce soil erosion which contributes to memorials stabilisation problems we have reduced grass cutting to twice per season and do not apply pesticide around the memorials. 

In ref to the memorial checks, this cemetery along with other non operational cemeteries are on our schedule for safety inspections.  

Due to the historical nature of the site there are limitations what works we can undertake but we shall ensure any headstones which present a risk to the public are addressed.” 


Cyber for Seniors Workshop

Abertay University is holding a Cyber for Seniors Workshop on Thursday 28th March between 10am and 4pm at the Events Space, Abertay University, Kydd Building, Bell Street.

Its purpose is to find out the challenges are that the elderly face with respect to cyber crime.     There will be talks about cyber challenges such as security and passwords.    The aim is to come up with solutions together to address some of these problems.    Lunch will be provided.

To book a space, please contact Karen Renaud, Professor of Cyber Security – k.renaud@abertay.ac.uk– or 308236 but please do so by close of play today.



Review of open spaces management rules

Residents are being invited by Dundee City Council to have their say on proposed new rules for open spaces across Dundee.

You can see details of the draft rules and how to submit comments by clicking here. 

Submissions should be made by 25th March.


Getting things done – Seabraes area #dundeewestend

I have recently had complaints about the extent of rubbish and litter along the western end of the path running from Roseangle to Greenmarket.   The problem area has been the part from Seabraes west towards the Roseangle car park.

The council’s Rapid Response Team, at my request, kindly did a litter-pick there recently.   However, I wrote to Scottish Enterprise to get its assurances that it would ensure the area is kept clean in future, as I was sure responsibility would rest with Scottish Enterprise.

The Director of Business Infrastructure at Scottish Enterprise has now advised me :

“I am advised that SE’s responsibilities cover the area shown outlined red on the plan (below). 

Our external Property Managing Agents have been reminded of our responsibilities with particular reference to litter collection so you should see an improvement.”