North Lanarkshire Council have officially opened the new Stanrigg recreational park, following the completion of renovation works to transform a disused football pitch, "notorious for litter, flooded paths and unwanted use by scramble bikes".

Provost Jean Jones officially opened the new park following a three year campaign led by Plains Community Futures (PCF).

The community came together to celebrate the occasion where they enjoyed a barbeque, craft stalls and children's activities.

Councillor Alan Beveridge, chair of the Community Matters (formerly LAP), expressed his gratitude to the local people and their hard work to make this change happen: "This fantastic new community park is a great example of what can be achieved when everyone works together.

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"This is the end of a three year process of construction and fundraising, with major contributions coming from the Lanarkshire LEADER programme, the FCC Communities Fund and North Lanarkshire Council.

"The restoration work allowed new equipment to be installed including a climbing boulder, which allows children to not only have fun and learn the basics of bouldering."

There are five new benches too, inviting visitors to take a welcome rest and enjoy the views of the newly planted shrubs and trees.

New tarmac paths have been put in place to address previous issues with flooding paths and waterlogged areas.

The project was led by Plains Community Futures (PCF), a voluntary community group, who worked closely with Central Scotland Green Network Trust and North Lanarkshire Council.

George McCutcheon, of Plains Community Futures, said: "The new park looks incredible, it's completely transformed the area and it means that schools and clubs, as well as families and young adults are able to use the space for interactive activities, encouraging more people to spend time outdoors.

"There is no doubt that this will become a well- loved feature in the heart of the village; we're all working hard to make the town a better and brighter place to live and visit."

The funding from North Lanarkshire Council also enabled the site to be covered by CCTV, keeping the recreational park safe and secure. 

(MH/JG)