Future of Play Parks

Overview

Members of the public and community groups are being invited to provide further feedback on our strategy for the future of play-park provision in the area.

The strategy was discussed at a local level at each of the Scottish Borders’ five Area Partnerships throughout June.

Area Partnerships were advised that the Council previously agreed to invest over £5million in new play parks, skate parks, pump tracks, all age outdoor spaces and fitness/youth shelters last year.

The meetings were also informed that we currently manage 243 play parks, of variable size and quality. According to benchmarking data, this figure is almost three times the national average for every 1,000 schoolchildren.

The proposals to remove play equipment from 74 play parks which are in the poorest condition would still see the majority of facilities retained.

The Scottish Borders would still remain well above the national average for play park provision when compared to similar sized Scottish councils.

The proposals would only see play equipment removed once the investment is made into the local area, and if a community only has one play park, it would remain.

Why your views matter

We are open to communities to taking over maintenance of any play areas which are being proposed for closure and would encourage these groups to contact the local authority by 19 August if interested.