Lochore Meadows centre declared open by its namesake

Champion of the Meedies Willie Clarke officially opens new hub

Champion of the Meedies Willie Clarke has launched the park’s new hub, named in his honour.

The Willie Clark Centre for visitors to Lochore Meadows Country Park and the nearby sports pavilion were officially opened yesterday.

Former councillor Mr Clarke played a leading role in transforming a pit bing into a VisitScotland four-star rated visitor attraction and has supported its development over the years.

The new visitor centre, which boasts a café, educational rooms and a display telling the history of the park and pavilion were constructed at a cost of £1.8 million.

Mr Clarke said: “I see this as a new phase and a new opportunity to develop Lochore Meadows and the facilities it offers.

“The Meedies has always had the potential to attract more people to visit and enjoy all that this area has to offer. We now have the opportunity to realise that potential.”

Chairwoman of Fife Council’s Cowdenbeath area committee, Linda Erskine, said: “I’m sure people will agree that there is no more fitting tribute than to name it after someone who has had such a passion for the Meedies for so many years.”

Before the old centre was demolished, there was controversy over the design and level of funding for its replacement.

Mrs Erskine said: “The old visitor centre was tired and no longer fit for purpose.

“Although there were some who didn’t want this new centre built I do believe, as a result of our investment, we now have a visitor centre which is a modern public facility for the park.

“It has enjoyed a very positive reception from customers since opening earlier this year.”

Councillor Judy Hamilton, convener of the community and housing services committee, added: “We want everyone to have access to good quality public greenspace and these improvements certainly reinforce Lochore Meadows’ place as a jewel in Fife’s crown.”

The golf and football pavilion was supported by funding from Sportscotland, Lochore Meadows Golf Club and Fife Golf Trust.

It includes a golf shop and has allowed a PGA professional to be employed onsite to provide coaching services.

Football changing rooms meet Sportscotland standards and, as well as being used by local team Benarty Astros, will be available for other park events.

The nearby Fife Cycle Park, Scotland’s first cycle circuit, is to open next month.

We want everyone to have access to good quality public greenspace and these improvements certainly reinforce Lochore Meadows’ place as a jewel in Fife’s crown. COUNCILLOR JUDY HAMILTON

Picture: Kenny Smith. Willie Clarke officially opens the new Lochore Meadows centre which has been named after him, alongside Fife Council leaders David Ross, left, and David Alexander.