Kids aren’t safe in this neglected play area
Dear Editor I have just read the story in the Observer (September 12, 2018) regarding the unfinished upgrades at the Braehead’s Afton Court playpark, behind my home. I live in Linden Avenue and have a threeyear-old and another son due to arrive in a week or two.
I agree these installations were left in a dangerous way, unfinished and not secured properly to protect against premature use.
When I saw the children playing inside the fences on the trampolines I pointed out the missing rubber edging and told them to be careful they didn’t hurt themselves.
As much as I appreciate the extra equipment which is being installed, I would actually like to draw attention to the state of the existing equipment at this play park, specifically the toddlers’ swings and the climbing fort, which in my opinion should be condemned immediately given their present condition.
The swings are cracked and weathered and the fort is rotten and crumbling. There is usually broken glass all over the park and the grating which previously kept dogs out of the park has been removed, meaning dog walkers are now letting dogs foul in the park.
There are also no dog waste disposal bins in the area. This means you find dog poo in bags thrown in the park or in the lanes surrounding the park, which is an issue for environmental health.
I have attached pictures of the cracked toddlers swings, where you can clearly see that these swings are perished, not safe. I believe cracks like this could also be a serious hygiene issue. Would you put your loved ones on play equipment like this? I think not.
This park may once have been a new attraction that was well kitted out but that was many, many years ago. What remains is a neglected and dangerous excuse for a play area.
I now drive to other towns or villages in the area to use their parks so that my son can play somewhere safe, fun and much less depressing.
I understand the community council here has proposals for a complete renovation of this area. I fully support this proposal and I think Stirling Council should be getting involved and funding as much of this project as they can.
This is a great space which is a valuable resource to the residents of Breahead, it is just a pity that in its current state that our youngsters cannot enjoy it to its full potential.
Mr S Gibson Linden Avenue Breahead