Community group fundraising to upgrade Rothes playpark
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A LOCAL community group is raising funds in a bid to upgrade Rothes' tired-looking playpark.
Rothes Community Playpark Group, registered as a charity through Rothes Council, is aiming to raise £120,000 by the end of July to fully refurbish the park.
So far, Moray Council has helped the group gather £50,000 in grants, which has to be spent before the end of July, while community fundraising has seen around £8000 gathered.
The plan is to rip out everything that is currently in the park – swings, a slide, monkey bars and more – and start fresh.
A survey went around locally in January to gauge what people would like to see in the park, with 119 respondents putting a zipline, an obstacle course, new swings and a pirate ship – popular among youngsters – on their wishlists.
It is also hoped that a softer surface can be put in place, with accessibility improved for those with disabilities and a fence put round the perimeter.
Mother-of-two Nicola Cowie, who is heading up the group, said: "This is a huge project but our main aim is to have a safe space for our children to play.
"The coronavirus pandemic has shown how valuable green space is. The park has been busier than ever, but it is such a state with equipment having been removed and not replaced.
"For a small town the park is so valuable and it's about getting some pride back into what we have.
"Moray Council agreed to replace some of the missing equipment, but we did a community survey and the things the public are asking for total £120,000.
"It's a huge amount to raise in a short space of time but we will give it a go. If we are going to do it then we are going to do it right. Aim for the stars and if we fail then there is always plan B.
"Plan A is to do the entire park at once, because that's the best value for money. The grants have to be spent by the end of July, so if we can't get the money by then we will turn to plan B and do things in stages."
Mrs Cowie has been delighted by the level of support locally, with several businesses jumping behind the plans.
There is much planned fundraising ahead, for when lockdown eases, with everything from pub quizzes, to a local treasure hunt and a sponsored walk on the agenda.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/RothesPlaypark.
