Seafront signs explore heritage
A PROJECT to improve Campbeltown’s seafront is on the crest of a wave after erecting a trio of boards interpreting the area’s history.
Two years ago, Campbeltown Community Council (CCC) chairman Alan Baker was inspired by an existing information board opposite the Burnet building.
Mr Baker said: ‘My inspiration was seeing how many people looked at the board on the Hall Street pavement.’
Another CCC member, Catherine Dobbie, took on the scheme’s administration and fundraising. It was expanded to include seating, picnic benches, two seagull-proof litter bins and a dog poo bag dispenser for Quarry Green.
Ms Dobbie said that seeing the state of the benches on Quarry Green was a big motivation.
An application was made to Tesco Bags of Help for funds, from the 5p levy on carrier bags, and the project was awarded £12,000.
Gordon Allen and his team from Wee Toon Environmental Solutions made eight new picnic benches and refurbished five old benches between the ferry terminal and former paddling pool.
In addition, three recycled picnic benches and a further three seating benches were purchased through Argyll and Bute Council with the assistance of Paul Martin. Ironically, the material used to make these benches includes recycled plastic bags.
The interpretation boards were commissioned to depict different aspects of Campbeltown’s heritage with research by Ms Dobbie and Liz Kennedy. In part they used The Campbeltown Book published by the former Civic Society.
Ms Dobbie said: ‘Thanks are due to Maureen Bell and Iain McAlister of Glen Scotia. Both supplied old photographs and postcards of Campbeltown.
‘The signs were created with Stewart Twynham of Wearebrandfire Services and huge help from Gordon Bennie of Argyll Signs.
‘Many thanks are due to Darren Kelly and his team from McFadyens Contractors for installing the signs free of charge.’
Mr Kelly said: ‘We fully commend CCC. The boards are very informative for locals and tourists alike.’