COUNCIL officers have pledged to keep working to resolve the toilet solution which stands in the way of a community takeover of Alloa's Wimpy Park.

The commitment came as the Place Committee last Thursday, September 12, heard how the Wimpy Park Community Group (WPCG) were trying to the secure the future of the Walled Garden at Pine Grove.

It was confirmed on the day that the group was considering a lease drafted up to take over the area for 19 years less one day for £1 per annum.

A major outstanding issue appeared to be the lack of toilet facilities on or near the site with the group requesting the local authority's help in finding a solution.

Some disappointment was expressed by elected members, however, over the estimated costs that would be involved for either of two options tabled.

Likewise, officers could not recommend spending anywhere between £40,000 and £143,000 respectively to either site a portable modular toilet on the grounds or to convert and refurbish 15 lockups on Pine Grove.

They concluded that "WPCG will need to explore all available funding options to progress development of the site".

Committee chair Councillor Craig Holden sought confirmation at the meeting whether the group would be better placed to seek external funding and was told that is indeed the case.

Pressing on, he was given a commitment by officers that they would keep supporting WPCG in that regard.

Mr Holden then highlighted the community group's "very comprehensive" business plan for the park and told the chamber that officers will be engaging "on an ongoing basis".

Cllr Kenny Earle confirmed he spoke to Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface which is also happy to help in seeking funding.

He added he was hoping the community initiative will be a success before encouraging as many as possible to make full use of the park.

The option for a portable modular toilet could come with significant installation costs like crane hire and tens of thousands more if permanent electrical and sewer connections were required.

Similarly, converting the garages which was the group's preference, would require high amounts of resources due to their poor condition and lack of utilities.

Back in 2014, the local authority also agreed to the demolition of the lockups due to a lack of demand at the time and cost of maintenance.

Council documents on the day said that "it would be extremely difficult to justify the use of HRA [Housing Revenue Account] resources to refurbish the garage units".

The group's aspiration for the lockups is not just toilets, but to use it as office space and to develop social enterprises there.