Clackmannanshire Council has been called upon to extend the renovation at Coalsnaughton playground.
One resident has said that the work to the facility has already “brought smiles to many young faces”, but has urged the council to extend it, to include a small sports provision.
Regis Lopez, in an email to Nikki Bridle, chief executive at Clackmannanshire Council, said: “The new facilities are a wonderful addition to our village and have already brought smiles to many young faces.
“The timing of this renovation could not have been more significant.
"As you are aware, our community is currently consumed by deep concern over the recent ground movement that has led to the evacuation of nearly 100 properties in Dunmoss View, Benbuck View, Nechtan Drive and Langour.
“With families facing uncertainty and displacement, the reopening of a safe, high-quality play space has provided a much-needed focal point for positivity and resilience.
“For children and parents alike, it has offered a brief respite from the anxiety that now pervades our village.
“While we are immensely grateful for the playground improvements, we respectfully request that the Council consider extending the facility to include additional sports provision.
“When the small football pitch was previously in place – despite its derelict state – it was consistently the most used element of the entire playground. Its absence is keenly felt.”
Further improvements would be the reinstating of the football enclosure, adding a low-maintenance tennis court for year-round activities, as well as other options such as outdoor gym equipment for older residents, a skating course, or flower beds and shrubs.
Regis added: “Expanding the playground into a true community sports hub would do more than provide recreation – it would lift the spirit of a village that desperately needs hope.
“It would send a powerful message that the Council cares for Coalsnaughton, not only in times of crisis but in our long-term future.
“We would also respectfully note that many families in our community are deeply worried about the potential impact on property values.
“The uncertainty surrounding the ground movement has already caused significant distress, and there is genuine fear that house prices may plummet, bringing financial ruin to hardworking families who have invested their life savings in their homes.
“Investment in community amenities such as sports facilities can help demonstrate that Coalsnaughton remains a vibrant, desirable place to live – which may, in turn, help reassure homeowners and prospective buyers alike.”
Councillor Scott Harrison, the Council’s spokesperson for place, said: “It is encouraging to hear that the enhanced play facilities are already making a positive difference for children and families in Coalsnaughton.
“We recognise what a difficult and uncertain time this continues to be for the residents directly affected by the ground movement, as well as for the wider community.
"Quite rightly, our immediate focus remains on responding to the incident and supporting those impacted.
“The suggestions put forward are positive and reflect the community’s ambition for Coalsnaughton.
“While the Council is not in a position to commit to additional investment of this nature at present, we would welcome the opportunity to meet with community representatives to discuss their ideas and explore what support, advice and signposting the Council can offer in identifying potential funding opportunities and developing community-led solutions.”
Share