Community-driven play park construction begins in New Galloway
Local children have played a central role in the park's design
The community of New Galloway is seeing the beginning of construction on a brand-new play park this month (August 2026).
Positioned at the site of the existing play facility, this project marks one of the largest community-led investments in children's play in New Galloway, with over £140,000 secured through collaboration among Dumfries and Galloway Council, LING, Glenkens District Trust, New Galloway Community Enterprise, New Galloway Community Council, and Natural Power.
Initiated in September 2024, the project emerged from discussions between LING and New Galloway Community Council following a directive from Dumfries and Galloway Council to upgrade play equipment that had reached the end of its service.
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Children at the Heart of the Project
Kells Primary School pupils have been pivotal throughout the project, sharing their ideas and priorities for the park's design.
Their ideas were backed by two rounds of community consultation - first at the Town Hall in 2025 and later this year at Kells School - culminating in the pupils' final decision on the preferred design.
Giving children a genuine voice in the project has allowed them to see how their ideas can influence real decisions within their community.
Investing in the Future of the Glenkens
This play park is about more than installing new play equipment.
It is an investment in New Galloway's future, crafting a welcoming area for local children and fostering a community atmosphere conducive for young families.
Amidst the challenges rural communities face, such as depopulation and changing local services, investing in high-quality community spaces is crucial.
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The closure of Kells Primary School highlights the importance of sustaining environments where children and families can thrive.
With construction beginning this month, the new play park is forecasted to open in time for the October school holidays.
This project exemplifies the possibilities when communities, local organisations, funding partners, and young people unite over a shared vision.
The result is a play park designed by its future patrons, contributing a lasting legacy for families in New Galloway.
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