Ahoy me hearties - we’re set to play
Blaeberryhill park opens after £124K facelift
Blaeberryhill Play Park in Whitburn reopened with a flourish following a £124,000 refurbishment.
A special Pirates in the Park event was held to mark the opening. Councillor Tom Conn cut the ribbon joined by Whitburn Gala Queen Lucy Beth Halliday and 105 year- old Jessie Malcolm.
The management committee provided light refreshments along with a children’s face painter, bubble swords, pirate hats/ bandanas and a DJ to act as compare.
The event was organised by Whitburn Community Cent re management committee and enthusiastic children from Croftmalloch and St Joseph’s primary schools had their say on how they wanted their new play park to be created.
Executive councillor for the environment Tom Conn said: “I’m delighted to have been invited to officially open this new play park.
“The children from Croftmalloch and St Joseph’s primary schools are to be congratulated on their imaginations - the play park is bright and welcoming.
“This is a fantastic facility which has been designed with different age groups so there is something for the whole family.
“I would also like to thank the Community Centre Management Committee for organising a special family day to encourage everyone along to try out the new play park.”
The old metal equipment which had reached end of service was removed and replaced with a selection of new and exciting play equipment which complement s the surrounding natural features such as the wooded area and the burn which flows through the park.
The toddler area, which reflects a ‘ river’ theme is bright and colourful to catch the imaginations of it young visitors. The ship is designed for children to play together, to encourage imaginative games of sailing to a deserted island with a captain’s wheel, binocular detailing and loud hailer to guide them on their way.
As the children get more confident they can take a trip to the main island where the large Robinia Timber structure with its rope bridge and rope net crossings is set to challenge their climbing and balancing skills to the limit. Last but not least there’s a Cableway which is always popular and fun for everyone to enjoy.
As an added bonus the council has also created a place for older children to enjoy. Complementing the existing sporting theme of the adjacent football area a new mini basketball court has been added.
A new and unique feature is a Bluetooth station which is operated by peddling the equipment which will allow people to play music from their smart phone as they exercise.