Play parks are saved by communities’ campaign

Residents celebrate as swings at Corriecravie are also reprieved

The community at the south end of Arran have won their fight to keep the swings at Corriecravie.

There had been fears that the small play park could be sacrificed to allow the swings at Corrie habour to stay open. However, that sparked an angry reaction in Corriecravie and North Ayrshire Council this week confirmed the swings would stay.

It has also emerged that only two out of the original seven play parks, which were earmarked for closure on the island, will go, after community groups rallied to save five of them. Corriecravie was not part of the original closure plan.

It is the second time in months community groups have stepped in to save vital facilities following the recent island-wide public toilets debacle.

The play park issue first reared its head back in June when the council revealed it was planning to close seven play parks in a bid to save money spent on weekly inspections. Now, however, all but two have been saved.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesman said: ‘We can confirm that there is interest in a community asset transfer for three parks in Lamlash plus Cordon village and Corrie harbour.

‘It was originally planned to close the play park at Whitefarland. However, the Pirnmill Village Association, which covers the Whitefarland, Thurderguy and Pirnmill play areas, requested Thunderguy close instead of Whitefarland. We are happy to accept the recommendation from the local community association.

‘That means two parks will close – at Thunderguy and Machrie – and it is our intention to replace the single swing at Thunderguy with a picnic area.

‘Following extensive consultation with the local elected members and community council, it is proposed to close the Corrie harbour play park although there is interest in a community asset transfer for this facility. We can confirm that the swing set at Corriecravie will remain open.’