Play area boost for Inverness communities

Community groups are being encouraged to work in partnership with The Highland Council to upgrade local play areas.

Over the past year, 14 parks in the Inverness area have benefited from an investment of £240,000.

Funds raised locally have been supplemented by a contribution by the Council, via  ward discretionary funds and mainstream budgets.

The Council has established a new Highland-wide contract with suppliers and and once the community has had its say on the repairs needed and the new equipment required, the Council takes the lead role in buying and installing the equipment.

The Council’s ability to reclaim VAT on purchases also ensures the community gain the maximum benefit from their fund-raising efforts.

Kiltarlity has been upgraded as has areas in Inverness  including Charleston View, Torvean Avenue, Bught Park, Lochalsh Road, Kessock Avenue, Esk Road, Balloan Road, Darris Road, Ashton Road, Maxwell Park and Culloden Playing Fields.

Meanwhile, the Council is monitoring the condition of equipment at Whin Park, Inverness. While not dangerous and requiring immediate removal, some equipment is coming to the end of its useful life. The estimated cost of replacement is £80,000.

Provost Jimmy Gray, Chairman of The Highland Council’s Inverness City Committee, said:  “We appreciate just how important good safe play areas are to the wellbeing of local communities.  The Council has the expertise to purchase, install and maintain equipment and we are very happy to liaise with local communities to make the very most of their fund-raising efforts.”