High Life Highland announced as new operator for Bellfield Park in Inverness - plans to be developed for green hub
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High Life Highland has confirmed it will now operate Bellfield Park in Inverness.
The historic park, that hosts a bandstand, shop and a paddling pool, will de developed into a hub to promote small musical events, outdoor adult fitness and a cycle trail.
Bellfield Park Tennis Club who already use the tennis courts will continue to provide a coaching programme for their members under the new agreement.
A spokesman said; "The park will be a useful addition to the charity’s current park portfolio in Inverness which includes Bught Park and the Northern Meeting Park.
Ian Ross, chairman of High Life Highland, said: “I am delighted that we have managed to reach an agreement that allows Bellfield Park Tennis Club to continue with their programme of competitions and coaching. The Park is a fantastic venue right here in the heart of Inverness for both visitors and locals to enjoy.
“Outdoor spaces have never been so important for the general health and wellbeing of people following the pandemic. Bellfield Park presents an opportunity to give people access to green space in the city centre and all the benefits that brings.
"Ultimately our vision is to develop the park into a hub where people can enjoy small events, outdoor adult fitness, cycle trails and musical performances, or just stop by and enjoy a cup of coffee.”
Bellfield Park was built between 1905 and 1930 and retains the original layout and many of the original functions.
It underwent a facelift scheme in 1999 which upgraded most of the facilities ‘in-situ’. The small ‘bandstand’ type structure was built in 2000 as part of the facelift which was part of a local initiative.
Lizzy Burke from Bellfield Park Tennis Club said, “Bellfield Park Tennis Club are delighted to continue operating from the park and the strong membership we have built up over the last three years is able to continue and grow. The club is open to everyone from the occasional tennis player or those who compete, we offer something for everyone.”
Lindsay Mackinnon of Ticket To Ride - Bike Hire said “I grew up in Inverness and have many fond memories of heatwave trips to the paddling pool at Bellfield. It has been great to see my own kids enjoy the park as they have progressed from the paddling pool to summer camps with the tennis club. I am confident that High Life Highland will be able to expand the existing community of regular users and attract many more visitors to the park for the first time.”
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