New operator seizes ‘great opportunity’ to take reins at Bellfield Park
Inverness’s Bellfield Park is open and ready to welcome visitors this summer with a new operator taking over the running of the kiosk and paddling pool.
‘Bloom at Bellfield’ is set to look after this oasis in the Ness Bank Island area of the city which also has a play area, band stand, tennis courts and bike hire.
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James MacDonald is the man behind ‘Bloom at Bellfield’ – he says he is delighted to be taking over the paddling pool and kiosk elements of the park and welcoming visitors to Bellfield.
“When I saw that High Life Highland were looking for a new operator at Bellfield Park, I was really keen to be that person”, he said.
“Some of my favourite, childhood memories are associated with this park and what it offered our family when I was a little kid. I have the bumps and scrapes to prove it! From the paddling pool to all the play equipment, we always had a great time.
“Now, I believe it’s time to give something back and if possible, enhance Bellfield to what I see as a great opportunity.
“Being a father of two eager kids myself looking for any constant activity, I now know what families need without having to travel far to achieve it. This is what I hope to maintain and enhance over the seasons ahead.”
High Life Highland first advertised for a new operator in May.
Nick Gamble, leisure manager for High Life Highland said: “We were keen to find a new operator to come on board at Bellfield Park, particularly someone with a real passion for the area so we are delighted to hand the reins over to James.
“This is a very special place for locals and visitors alike. We wish James every success.”
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.
Bellfield Tennis Club run the tennis courts, which have recently benefited from significant investment, with £25,000 from the Highland Council to ensure quality facilities for the local community in addition to £167,000 from the Lawn Tennis Association Foundation and the Department of Culture, Media, and Sport.
