Hopes raised for revamp of crumbling playgrounds in Nairn following review by Highland Council
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Hopes have been raised that Nairn’s crumbling playgrounds could be in line for an overhaul following a review of facilities by Highland Council.
The local authority has come under fire on social media following the closure of many pieces of play equipment and the complete shutdown of some playgrounds for health and safety reasons.
Nairn councillor Tom Heggie said progress was now being made towards a solution.
"The problems highlighted are fair and legitimate and the council has to hold its hands up," he said.
"But we have had a preliminary meeting with the area manager of community services in the past week and there will be another meeting on August 12 to discuss the issues.
"It is our intention to have a complete review of what we have at the riverside, including football, BMX and the playground."
While the new splashpad on the seafront has been a big hit, it is a near neighbour of other play equipment currently out of bounds.
Cllr Heggie admitted it was "disappointing" items had not been able to be replaced to coincide with the opening of the splashpad but that the equipment has, in fact, been on order for more than six months.
"Cawdor has had some problems and following discussion with the community council and some financial help from the local wind farm trust we have been able to carry out works there which have enabled them to reopen," he said.
"We now need to address the problems elsewhere in Nairnshire."
Volunteer group Nairn Play was set up in 2015 to try and address some of the issues concerning play areas in the town but treasurer Stewart Stansfield said its ambitions were stalled by lack of funding and projects not being “shovel ready” when funding streams were.
He felt the council was only responding now because of public pressure and that what is being proposed does not go far enough.
"Basically this is simply papering over the cracks," he said. "It’s another review when what the people want is action. It’s infuriating.
"These safety issues should have been addressed when they were raised and not reached the stage where we have crumbling play parks all over the place in what should be one of the most fantastic tourist destinations in the country.
"This is a holiday town. Why is it beyond the council’s capabilities to have all these things in place in time for the summer season and to have these areas safe for both locals and our visitors?
"I sincerely hope this review will mean progress but I won’t be holding my breath."
Mr Stansfield added Nairn Play had access to funds totalling nearly £30,000 and these would be made available for distribution towards any projects arising from the review.
Related story: Closure of play parks sparks angry reaction
