Decision on National Lottery funding bid for Ferrycroft play park at Lairg expected next week

The outcome of a National Lottery funding bid to help redevelop a Sutherland play park is expected to be known next week.

Lairg and District Community Initiatives (LDCI) board chairperson Kaye Hurrion said the organisation hoped to hear by around March 19 whether or not the application for Ferrycroft play park would be approved.

Speaking at meeting of Lairg Community Council earlier this month she said the lottery funding was the final part of a funding package that would be used to purchase all ability play equipment.

"We are not going to take over the play park," she told community councillors. "We are providing the equipment and Highland Council has agreed to maintain it - that is unusual as most community groups take over play parks.

"It is a really good way for the community to work with the Highland Council because we have no responsibility for maintenance."

Ms Hurrion added: "Hopefully it will become a destination park. If the Flow Country does get World Heritage status, then Lairg will be a gateway to that and Ferrycroft will be a place for people to come.

LDCI has been working with a group of local parents to regenerate the park.

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