Events field work to be fast-tracked
Masterplan being drawn up for Falleninch
Work planned on an events field and neighbouring City Park at the foot of Stirling Castle as part of Stirling’s City Deal is set to be accelerated.
At a meeting of Stirling Council, councillors were told that infrastructure – sure to add to the attraction of Falleninch field as a location for major festivals and shows – could be developed quicker than originally hoped.
During an update on the City Deal proposals, SNP group leader Councillor Scott Farmer said it had been suggested the events field needed more drains and electricity.
He asked the administration if they had any plans to accelerate the necessary infrastructure project given the economic benefit that could quickly accrue.
Council leader Johanna Boyd said using Falleninch for National Armed Forces Day in 2014 had given an indication of the size of event that could be held there and interest in the site.
Unlocking the potential of Falleninch and developing a new park on land between the motorway and foot of Stirling Castle is part of the City Deal.
Councillor Boyd added: “Something we have been stressing is the deliverability of the City Deal. The City Park would be further down the line. We are in the process of negotiation with the Scottish Government and I think I’m permitted to say there’s been significant interest in the City Park so there are elements of that that could be delivered faster than could be initially anticipated. It is now a question of us getting on with a masterplanning process so we can draw down on funds.”
Councillor Corrie McChord said: “There are intentions from staff to do something in the short term. There are things like the agricultural show that could be done without drainage but there is potential for the future. A big selling point will be the finish line of the Stirling Marathon at Falleninch next year which could get worldwide attention.”
Council planners recently submitted a planning application for the field after feedback obtained from event promoters suggested onsite facilities and infrastructure - such as on-site water supply, improved field drainage and improved access - would make the site more appealing to event organisers.
Planners had also said the work would be seen to kick start the council’s commitment to the City Development Framework/City Deal and link with objectives of the City Park programme.
Councillor Boyd said over 1000 people had shown their support for the City Deal by signing the Stirling Pledge.
The City Deal application seeks funding from the Scottish and Westminster governments for infrastructure projects designed to attract investment and create jobs. Projects include a National Tartan Centre, new Stirling Council offices at Forthside, shared civic space and external performance and events space, a digital hub, regeneration at Top of the Town, river taxis for the River Forth, pedestrian and cycle paths, and a new city park below Stirling Castle.
Clackmannanshire is now also set to be included in the City Deal bid.
Councillor Gerry McLauglan said: “We have been very strongly behind the City Deal from the beginning but have been keen from the start to include Clackmannanshire. Is the business plan based on the wider approach or still Stirling focused?”
Councillor Boyd said: “Clackmannanshire are now in their own process first of all in asking what projects would make transformational change in their area. They are at the very early stages of building up their own business case. Ours has been in place for 18 months. Our officers are giving any assistance required to Clackmannanshire where requested.”
There’s been significant interest in the City Park