Transformation of much-loved Inverness playpark approaching important milestone

Work to transform a popular Inverness playpark is progressing well and the Whin Park redevelopment project reaches an important milestone next month. 

The Council’s vision is to provide a high-quality play offering for children and young people in Inverness and beyond that serves the needs of all young people, regardless of ability and age. 

Whin Park’s transformation will include a varied range of sustainable play equipment supported by core facilities at the park, including toilet provision and the boating pond. 

Recognising the importance of Whin Park as a destination facility £234,988 Scottish Government Play Area Funding was allocated to the redevelopment of the park by Members of the Inverness, Central, Ness-side, Millburn, and Inverness West Wards. 

At the end of 2023 Inverness City Committee Members also agreed a £150,000 Inverness Common Good Funding application, which will contribute to the delivery of the park’s vision. 

In February 24 at City of Inverness Area Committee, Members agreed to award a further £100,000 from the Community Regeneration Fund, which provides an additional amount to the park development costs.  

To date, completed works include a feasibility study, consultation with the local community on requirements, funding secured for the refurbishment of the public toilets and the replacement of old play equipment. 

In addition, a topography study has been carried out and work has been completed to remove an invasive species from the boating pond. A new license to operate was granted in 2022 for the boat operator and £15K investment has been spent on replacement boats.  

The removal of some items of play equipment due to health and safety reasons and the refurbishment of the public toilet is due to complete by the Easter holidays.  

To mitigate the removal of some of the play equipment deemed unsafe, the Council is working to develop a programme of additional? on-site activities. This is being explored in partnership with our partners at High Life Highland with their activity providers and discussions are ongoing with the Care and Learning Alliance (CALA).  Further information will be issued in due course.  

Chair of Highland Council’s Communities and Place Committee, Cllr Graham MacKenzie, said: “We recognise the importance of play and playparks for children, in terms of the benefits they provide to their physical and mental health. This makes the progress being made at Whin Park even more pleasing.” 

Leader of Inverness and Area, Cllr Ian Brown, said: “It is encouraging to see the progress being made on the transformation of Whin Park, which is the jewel in the crown of Highland Council’s play areas.   

“Due to the park’s popularity with locals and visitors alike, this much needed facelift will ensure the park will continue to provide a safe and fun play environment for people of all abilities to enjoy.”  

He added: “The vision for Whin Park complements the aims of the Council’s ‘Our Future Highland’ Programme and in particular the commitments to work together to improve quality of life and opportunities for Highland people. 

“The approach to the redesign of the park, and in particular the elements of inclusivity and consultation is underpinned by the Council's Playpark Strategy.” 

Going forward the expected timeline for Whin Park redevelopment is as follows: 

• March 24 – Finalise design brief and undertake procurement exercise to deliver design and supply. 

• May 24 – Shortlisting of two suppliers.  

• June 24 - Public consultation to choose the winning design.    

• July 24 - Contract awarded.  

• October 24 (latest estimate) – Contract/works completed.