Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Bright idea for park
Switched on to make paths more accessible
New lighting to benefit walkers and cyclists is to be installed in Drumpellier park as part of a new campaign encouraging Monklands residents to use the area’s green spaces safely during coronavirus restrictions.
Solar-stud “guiding” lights will be put in place on pathways at the Coatbridge country park to help those using the parks in the early evenings, aiming to “provide people with a couple of extra hours outside after dark”.
Additional signs showing nearby features and the distance around the paths will be installed as part of the Active Outdoors project being run by North Lanarkshire Council which is being supported by £50,000 from the Scottish Government’s spaces for people fund.
Maps of local walking, running and cycling routes will be posted online in the coming weeks, along with workout suggestions for people to use at outdoor gyms including those at Rawyards in Airdrie, Moss Avenue in Caldercruix and at Dunbeth and Glenboig parks.
The Active Outdoors project aims to “get people outdoors and active at their own pace, using amenities in a natural environment”, by highlighting the area’s open-air facilities including nature reserves and play areas.
It comes as the area is under the strictest Covid-19 restrictions with a lockdown running until at least the middle of next month, resulting in the closure of indoor leisure facilities along with non-essential retail and hospitality while schools will be shut to the majority of pupils until at least next month.
Environment convener Michael Mcpake, the Glenboig councillor, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has clearly demonstrated the importance of greenspace for health and wellbeing.
“And with restrictions likely to be in place for some time, we want to highlight the wonderful facilities we have on our doorstep.
“North Lanarkshire’s three country parks are popular attractions, but people may not be familiar with some of our other town parks, cycle and walking routes, and nature reserves.
“We’ll be highlighting these facilities and the wildlife, heritage and points of interest around the area through the Active Outdoors campaign, as well as providing suggestions for exercise for all abilities, and family activities.
“Even through the winter, there are still plenty of things to do and see in our local area while we enjoy some fresh air and a little bit of exercise.”
More information is available at www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/outdoors and on the council’s social media channels.