Maxwell Park in Inverness could be further developed but the idea needs local support from parents in Cradlehall
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An Inverness park could be transformed into a community facility complete with bike trails and other public amenities – or even a new sports centre – if there is enough interest from local residents.
It has been proposed that Maxwell Park, in the Cradlehall area of the city, be redeveloped but it would need local residents to get together and form a committee to drive the project forward.
Initially the idea is being directed by the parents council of Cradlehall Primary School and it is understood that a number of parents have already expressed an interest in being involved. It is hoped that an initial plan could be developed and submitted to Highland Council.
Organisers believe that such a project would encourage exercise and physical activity for all ages and abilities.
Inverness South councillor Ken Gowans supports the idea.
“This is a very positive initiative that would be a welcome addition to the local amenity,” he said.
“This is currently a local park and provides a general green open space with the addition of a kick-about pitch and goals.”
He said there was a need for more amenities in the east of the city and such a development would be a “welcome addition”.
He added: “Against the backdrop of increasing development and there has been no additional facilities provided.
“The east of Inverness is crying out for a proper indoor sports centre and I have been urging the council to develop plans for one.
“The population density, demographics and transport connectivity, make the east of Inverness the obvious choice for a major investment of this kind.”
Cllr Gowans said it was important schools, parents and the general community took ownership of the project.
“We now need to look at funding options from a range of sources including our ward fund,” he said. “I would be very supportive of any application that was submitted.
“It will depend on funding and when consultation with the community has been completed. Discussions have already been held at Cradlehall Parent Council and these were extremely positive.”
