Work starts on new destination play park in Earlston
Last updated 8 hours ago
Work's set to get underway today (Monday) on a new destination playpark on the former primary school site in Earlston.
The £285,000 development takes inspiration from local legend Thomas the Rhymer - with a reading corner named after the local legend, which can double as an outdoor classroom.
The Leaderfoot Viaduct, Black Hills Fort, and Leader Water are also set to feature in the design.
According to Scottish Borders Council, the project is expected to take seven weeks to complete - meaning it should be open before the end of the summer holidays.
HAGs UK, manufacturers of commercial outdoor Play Equipment, have been awarded the contract.
Staff were joined by pupils from Earlston and Leader Valley primary schools, along with Leaderdale and Melrose Councillors, to officially mark the start of works at South Croft Park.
The new destination playpark is aimed at children aged 3 to 14 and is structured around three main zones: Toddler, Junior and Sensory - Quiet.
A spokesperson said: "The design has considered the needs of everyone, striving to make the play area as inclusive and accessible as possible."
The playpark investment forms part of the Council’s Capital Programme for Play Areas and Community Outdoor Spaces supported by Scottish Government funding.
Councillor David Parker, SBC’s Executive Member for Integrated Care and Support Services said: “Scottish Borders Council remains committed to investing in and improving facilities throughout the Borders. This can be seen through the projects that have already been delivered across the region and through those that will be delivered over the next four years.
“This park in Earlston is a £285,000 project, and it will have a fantastic range of equipment in it for young people.”
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