URBAN PROJECT
Fernhill residents’concerns about parking, traffic and access to the proposed Blairbeth Park will be taken into consideration before the final drawings are submitted for planning approval.
South Lanarkshire Council, which is behind the £870,000 urban park at the former Blairbeth Golf Club, says it has listened to people’s concerns.
Two public consultations - which took place last month - saw residents express concerns about the potential for increased traffic on Fernbrae Road and the car park infringing on the privacy of neighbouring homes.
Councillor Margaret Cowie who lives in Fernhill said: “The council have taken their concerns on board and have looked again at that and moved the car park to a different place and it will be obscured with trees. The council are also going to see if there are any further options which are available to them to address these concerns.”
Ms Cowie added: “On the whole locals are thrilled with the plans.
“It’s going to be a fantastic asset to Fernhill. The fact that schools will be able to use it and council officers are going out to consult with groups in the area to see what they want to see in it is a positive thing.”
The park will, according to the council, create opportunities to walk, exercise, cycle and provide planting to support biodiversity.
Space for artwork, allotments and natural play will also be provided.
A Friends of Blairbeth Park group will be set up to oversee the facility and local volunteers will be trained as park rangers.
Michael McGlynn, executive director of community and enterprise resources at the council, said: “The proposals for the former Blairbeth Golf Club are for a new urban park that will provide informal leisure activities for the local community. Included in this are natural areas suitable for healthy exercise and to enjoy the spectacular views.
“There has been a positive response to the consultation on proposals for this new