Boardwalk funds push
NICOLA FINDLAY
An appeal for funds to replace a fire-ravaged boardwalk at an East Kilbride beauty spot is gathering pace with organisers looking for a final push over the line.
Friends of Langlands Moss (FOLM), who manage the popular haven, are awaiting news on grant applications which could help them replace the boardwalk which was destroyed by a second fire in 2017.
And they thanked all the groups who have helped them restore other parts of the moss which was hit with two large fires in the space of two years.
Bridges and walkways have been erected, which helps circumvent the boardwalk, and other activities have been ongoing and flora and fauna have recovered well.
Convenor of FOLM, Maureen Potter, said: “Our current total raised is near £40,000.
“But it’s not all confirmed with half that amount being negotiated at present. The cost of the boardwalk will be in excess of £60,000.
“South Lanarkshire Council can cover some of the shortfall from existing budgets but not all of it.
“I submitted a number of grant applications which, if successful, could see us near enough over the finish line.
“We are a bit in limbo until then but the boardwalk appealing is ongoing and gradually we are getting there - we just need a last big push.
“I have to thank CocaCola who gave us a donation towards it.
“And the replacement boardwalk will be fitted with a fire break so only part of it would be affected if we were hit by fire again, which is of course a worry for folk.”
Other groups who have supported FOLM include East Kilbride Rotary, Sainsbury’s Olympia, Volunteering Matters Action Earth, 2nd EK Boys Brigade, SLC and Scott Donaldson of Butterfly Conservation and Elisabeth Ferrell of Bat Conservation.
Maureen added: “I would really thank all our supporters over the past year.
“We are also very grateful to the local community for all they support they have given us over the year and wish them all a good Christmas when it comes and hope to see them all in the New Year.”