Community work has finally paid off

Aug 19 2008 by Our Correspondent, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

A SUCCESSFUL scheme, which has seen the regeneration of under-used green spaces in Perth and Rattray, will be discussed at a meeting of the Housing and Health Committee tomorrow.

The council successfully bid to Communities Scotland for Housing Estate Regeneration Funding, which was used to develop the community open spaces and pay for new children's play facilities.

A total of £1,227,265 was received.

The money helped to regenerate Letham Park at Rannoch Road, Perth, Hillyland/Tulloch Park at Tulloch Road, Perth, Davie Park, Rattray, and Rattray Common.

These areas had been highlighted by local people as under-used green spaces, often with children's play facilities that needed upgrading.

They were also identified as areas where young people could safely socialise if upgrades were carried out.

Refurbishment works included:

Letham Park – improved paving and seating were put in. Railings were installed to enhance the feeling of security. Play equipment, a kick-about area and seating were provided to create a number of flexible spaces for use by all age ranges. A large area of grass has been retained for community events.

Hillyland/Tulloch Park – high shrubs and mounding were moved to make people feel safer when using the land. The frontage of the park was also improved by new railings. Play areas for different age ranges were introduced and swings and a hill slide were installed, as well as a kick-about area. A series of workshops for local children were held so that they could have some input into the design of the play areas.

Davie Park – the park's entrances were opened up to make it more welcoming. The large park was broken down into smaller areas, with a play area installed at the rear. A new all-weather sports surface with timed lighting was installed, for use by the whole community. There is also an ongoing project at the pond which will improve its appearance.

Rattray Common – access was improved from the nearby school, allowing pupils to use the Common at break times and thereby maximising its use. Railings were improved and a skate park was developed with the co-operation of local young people.

During June, a series of open community events were held to celebrate the completion of each of the schemes and attendance was very good.

A paper will go to the committee tomorrow, informing members of the successful completion of the refurbishment schemes.

Housing and Health vice-convener, Councillor Alasdair Wylie, said yesterday: “These community spaces are now being used a lot more than they used to be by local people.

“We are also observing much lower levels of vandalism, which suggests young people are taking a pride in the areas.

“Feedback from the police and Community Wardens has also been very positive.

“This project has been a real success story. Having a green space to enjoy, with a range of facilities, can make a really positive difference to our communities.”