Sit-down sought over council play park cash
One of the main forces behind a campaign to rejuvenate Ardrishaig’s King George V Community Park has issued a call for village groups to share what they would like to see in it.
Blair Johnston spoke to the Advertiser in April about the group’s ambitions for the whole KGV field, in line with Ardrishaig Community Council and Ardrishaig Community Trust.
With Argyll and Bute Council funding of almost £1 million to be shared amongst 28 of the region’s play parks, Mr Johnston would like to hear from other people - and feels there is redevelopment scope for both young people and adults.
He said: “We would like to bring groups such as the community council, Ardrishaig primary’s PTA, and others, round the table to find out what their priorities are - and how an improved play park could benefit them.
“There are options out there not just for improved children’s play, but for light exercise stations for adults, as seen in many urban parks - a space with a true community feel across the generations.
“People can find us on Facebook at Ardrishaig’s KGV Community park, or at ardrishaig.kgv.community.park@gmail.com.”
Ardrishaig KGV opened as a park in 1930 towards the end of the eponymous monarch’s reign.
Its play park has been identified by the local authority as “high priority” for redevelopment.
At the same time, the local authority has also put its play parks’ future to the public, with two surveys published online.
Argyll and Bute Council said: “We have received a total of £938,000 to cover 28 play parks, some of which require more upgrades than others.
“The December 2022 environmental, development and infrastructure (ED&I) committee agreed that further engagement with elected members, community councils, education colleagues and disability forums should take place prior to any funding being distributed.
“To decide how best to use the funding, we need to hear from the people who know and use the play parks by completing a short survey.
“It only takes a few minutes to complete, and we will use your feedback to plan improvement works.
“Find both surveys for young people, and for those representing the interests of young people, at https://www.argyll-bute. gov.uk/consultations/ play-park-funding.”