A local voluntary organisation dedicated to enhancing and protecting the countryside around Helensburgh.

Green belts around settlements are part of the planning system. Scottish Planning Policy (2010, paragraph 159) gives the purposes of green belts as to:

• direct planned growth to the most appropriate locations
• protect and enhance the quality, character, landscape setting and identity of towns
• protect and give access to open space within and around towns

The HGBG is not against all developments, but we do ensure that consideration is given to the long term effects of proposed developments.

The countryside around Helensburgh is crucial for the town's landscape setting and as a recreational facility. HGBG has worked with others to create a "Ring of Recreation". This is a network of footpaths around the town which link woodlands, moorlands, local hills and places of interest. There are two paths into the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, and the local Access Trust is planning a 50km "Three Lochs Way" from Balloch to Inveruglas, via Helensburgh.

Being close to the town, access is easy without the need for a car. Walking is recognised as making an important contribution to health and helps to stimulate children's sense of exploration and adventure.

Helensburgh's Green Belt has a wide range of wildlife and plant life. Key locations are Duchess Wood (the only Local Nature Reserve in Argyll & Bute), the Blackhill Mire, Garrawy Glen, the Ardencaple Wood and the twin peaks of Tom na h-Airidh and Ben Bowie, from which there are magnificent views down the Clyde, across to Loch Lomond and to the Arrochar Hills.

Please take a little time to explore our site. There are pages, and links, where you can find out more about us, our activities and the plans of the local council for our town. There are sections devoted to wildlife, plant life and local footpaths. The information from this website will help you to understand what we do and why.