Community support to access funding for Forfar playpark
The upgrade of one of Forfar’s most used playparks could depend on local support to access funding for the project.
Angus Council has already set aside £150,000 of Scottish Government funding for improvements to the play area at Forfar Loch Country Park.
Popular with locals and visitors, particularly given its situation next to the nearby caravan park, it was sited next to the former Lochside Leisure Centre until the building was demolished in 2022. The centre’s old tennis courts and its former crazy golf course have also been removed.
However, the funding will only be enough to replace three large items of play equipment and install new surfacing. Angus Council therefore carried a survey on what replacement locals would like to see.
And there are hopes a community volunteer group could help to access significant extra investment.
The council said: “Before moving ahead to replace the items, we wanted to ask the community if there was interest in working with the council to help design improvements and explore additional funding to enhance the play area and park beyond the current replacement of items.”
The main points from the survey feedback included: A desire for more varied play equipment; better seating; more facilities for older children; recognition of the loch as a special, natural space that is easy to access from town; interest in completing the circular path around the loch.
The survey also revealed support for the return of a café to the area. Despite the loch area’s popularity, it has no food or refreshment facilities. Public toilets are located in the country park ranger centre, but their condition led to complaints last year the facility had been neglected.
Teenagers also want to see a better skate park, with two-thirds of those who responded to the survey saying they do not go there because it is too small.
The council hopes a new group could secure funds of £10,000 to £50,000 for extra or larger play equipment and up to £200,000 to create a ‘destination’ play area.
The council added: “What can be achieved depends on available funding and working together over time.”
Anyone who would like to get involved should email [email protected].