Working groups
The Astley Ainslie Local Place Plan sets out a shared community vision for the future of this much-loved site. To help move that vision into action, four working groups have been established: Community Ownership, Housing, Community Hub, and Natural Environment. Each group will focus on a key part of the plan, helping to shape practical projects, build partnerships and support community-led delivery. Although Health and Wellbeing is not a separate working group, it sits at the heart of them all, reflecting Astley Ainslie’s long-standing role as a place of care, connection, nature and everyday wellbeing.
Below, you can meet the four working group leads and learn more about the experience, skills, and local knowledge they bring to this important work.
Community Ownership
Led by Howard Royston, Trustee
Howard brings valuable practical experience to the Community Ownership Working Group as a retired Chartered Building Surveyor with 24 years of NHS estate management experience across Edinburgh, the Lothians and nationally. His understanding of public-sector estates, buildings and the need to balance different interests will help guide AACT’s work to protect Astley Ainslie’s special qualities for long-term community benefit.
Natural Environment
Led by Helen Sang, Trustee
Helen leads the Natural Environment Working Group, bringing a strong scientific background and a deep appreciation of Astley Ainslie’s landscape and buildings. She is a geneticist who worked at the Roslin Institute and the University of Edinburgh for nearly 40 years, with extensive experience in research, public engagement and senior roles in the UK research community.
Community Hub
Led by Rebecca Hackett, Trustee
Rebecca brings wide-ranging experience in policy, negotiation, engagement and organisational change, developed over more than 20 years as a civil servant working across the UK Government, Scottish Government and European institutions. Her local connection to Astley Ainslie, combined with this professional background, makes her well placed to help shape a welcoming, practical and community-led hub for the site.
Housing
Led by Keith Anderson, Trustee
Keith leads the Housing Working Group and brings over 40 years’ experience in housing, regeneration and planning, including senior roles in housing associations and local authorities. He retired in 2020 after 11 years as Chief Executive of Port of Leith Housing Association, and combines this professional expertise with a lifelong connection to the Astley Ainslie site and a commitment to the community-led vision for its future.
