CAMPAIGNERS have launched a bid to re-open the toilets at Alva's Cochrane Park.

Alva Development Trust is looking to raise £5,000 to reinstate public toilet provision at the town, following the closure of facilities a few years ago.

The ambitions go further than just a simple restoration as the trust hopes to also open a kiosk and, potentially, a café further down the line.

Mary Laing, chair of Alva Development Trust, told the Advertiser: "We were originally set up to take over the toilet block before the Cochrane Hall became available.

"We've been trying since May 2018 to get the toilets so it's just all falling into place.

"It needs an awful lot of TLC to get it up and running, but we are hoping with some support from the community we'll be able to get the place up to code – we want to make it wind-and watertight and do some minor repairs."

The campaign was already starting to gather momentum when it launched at the end of last week with several hundreds of pounds already pledged online.

Cash donations were also handed in to support the trust's initiative.

Speaking of the immediate plans with the funding, Mary added: "It will allow us to open the toilets and a little kiosk selling crisps, juice and things like that for anybody that's in the park.

"It's just so that people stay in the park a little longer and tourists that are coming to the park can say there's basic facilities.

"They can stay a bit longer and, hopefully, it might escalate. They might take a walk to the shops; it's got a ripple effect.

"We really-really need to bring tourism back to the town – we've got a beautiful park, beautiful facilities, play area, everything."

Part of the works needed at the toilet block is bringing in the water mains as the facility currently features tanks.

Speaking of the loss of the facilities, Mary said: "We had a feasibility study done around six months ago and what came out top was: toilets, kiosk or café facilities and tourist information."

Those looking to help out with any works or clean ups can call the trust on 01259 760 657 or ring the bell outside the Cochrane Hall and wait for a volunteer to pop out.

To support the fundraiser, visit bit.ly/3kKFaUA