Park branded dangerous by youth worker
Westburn Park will not be refurbished despite complaints about loose bricks, burnt fences and weeds sprouting in the play park, South Lanarkshire Council has said.
The local authority this week dismissed claims the park was no longer fit for purpose, despite serious damage to park furniture such as fences, walls and pavements.
The park, situated next to Westburn Hall on Northbank Avenue, was this week branded “a disgrace” by a parent and youth worker who says she is forced to survey the park for hazards before letting children play there.
Karen Crooks, who works at Westburn Youth Club, told the Reformer: “The park is a disgrace and has been totally neglected by the council. It needs a right good make over.
“The parks and recreation areas are not weeded properly, the weeds grow up through the fences. The slabs are broken in many areas and the wooden posts are burnt and rotten.”
Karen and fellow youth workers say the park would be better used if it was upgraded, stating it is currently unsafe for small children.
She added: “There’s glass everywhere. We sweep the glass every Friday to allow the kids safe play. The council cut the grass but leave the weeds to grow high. It’s a mess and some parts are dangerous.
“I have three grandsons and nieces and nephews and I would be reluctant to take them there as it’s not safe.”
Alistair McKinnon, head of facilities, waste and grounds services at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “The play area in Westburn Park is inspected on a weekly basis and any debris, litter and glass removed. We also respond as soon as is possible to issues or complaints raised.
“The entire area has been treated with herbicide this season to control weed growth. The few weeds that have developed under the play equipment will be removed, and the small areas of moss that have sprung up around the perimeter will also be treated.
“All of the play equipment is regularly inspected by ROSPAtrained staff. During the most recent inspection, play equipment on site was found to be in good working order. We keep this constantly under review.
“The damage to the wall has been due to a combination of vandalism and natural ageing of the brick; if bricks become loose they are removed. The wooden logs have again been subject to vandalism and are burnt; these too will be removed. There are currently no plans to carry out further refurbishment.
“We would continue to ask users of the park to consider the safety and enjoyment of others, by ensuring litter is properly disposed of.”