Popular city farm getting set to welcome visitors again after Covid closure #NeverMoreNeeded
A charity city farm is set for a grand re-opening as Scotland eases out of coronavirus lockdown.
LOVE Gorgie Farm, formerly Gorgie City Farm, is set to reopen its doors on Monday 29 June as Scotland moves into phase 2 of easing restrictions.
Social distancing strategies have been adopted to create a safe environment for visitors and staff.
These are temporary and include a one-way system and an open picnic area and other measures to ensure groups of visitors don't gather too closely. Staff will be using PPE and hand sanitizer will be supplied.
The café will also offer take-away services.
During lockdown the farm has been acting as a focal point for the community, operating as a foodbank and delivering free breakfast for children amid school closures. It also provides free pet boarding to those who were unwell or had to be temporarily admitted into hospital.
The farm will be open from 9.30am to 4.30pm seven days a week and visitors will have the opportunity to see pigs, cows, sheep and goats, as well as its fantastic alpacas.
While entry is free a donation is welcomed.
Visitors will also get to see the abundance of food growing and can find some quiets spaces to sit amid nature and learn more about the farm’s future plans.
Lynn Bell, chief executive of LOVE Learning, the education and social care charity which operates LOVE Gorgie Farm, said: “We look forward to welcoming back visitors to LOVE Gorgie Farm at the end of the month. The safety of our staff and visitors is paramount and we have introduced a range of measures to build trust and confidence.
“Lockdown has been a difficult time for everyone and while closed the farm has been a crucial local resource, acting as a food bank and providing free pet boarding. Travel restrictions remain in place and, for the immediate future, the farm will be restricted to welcoming local communities.
“The connection with the environment that we can provide is vital for the well-being of all. This is a first hugely important step in a return to normality and we ask for everyone’s patience and understanding as we resume operations in a way that works for everyone."
