PLAY AREA REVAMP JOY
AWEST End playpark has benefitted from a major refurbishment following complaints about the “state” of the equipment. The park’s popular pirate ship attraction had been in need of some work to bring it up to standard.
Shipbuilder BAE Systems joined forces with Glasgow City Council to finance the repair work, which was then organised by the local authority.
Andy Waddell, director of operations at Glasgow City Council said: “The Victoria Park play area is one of the best-used play areas in the city and the pirate ship is the centrepiece of the play equipment.
“It’s great to see it back in ship shape and BAE Systems are due a big round of thanks for their support for the local community.
“People in Glasgow love their parks and wherever possible we work with community groups and other organisations to ensure parks are improved, well-kept and provide a range of facilities.”
He added: “The council has also committed to investing £800,000 in the city’s play areas over the course of the coming year.”
There are currently around 400 playparks throughout the city, which have provided solace for many families during difficult lockdown restrictions.
As previously reported last year, calls were made for Glasgow City Council to overhaul the play area amid concerns it was run down and left in a “state of disrepair”.
Speaking at the time, a disappointed local grandmother claimed the majority of toys were closed off to youngsters while the others were damaged.
The local authority insisted the park was regularly maintained, however, admitted attractions would be sealed off if they were in need of repair until such time work can be done to resolve the issue.
Alan Milligan, discipline outfit manager at BAE Systems, said: “We’re delighted to have played our part in the refurbishment of the park, just in time for the summer.
“We know how important this facility is for the families of the local community and it’s great to see the children enjoying the pirate ship once again.”
The cost of the work is not known, however, the ship has now been fully reopened for little ones to enjoy.