Play Renewal funding is set to revive Pilmuir’s play area in Forres in 2025

A popular play area next to a school is to be upgraded using £90,000 from the Scottish Government.

Randolph Lane play area between Thornhill and Pilmuir - currently made up of an aging climbing frame with slides and an adjacent set of swings - is set to benefit from the Play Renewal fund in the new year.

Moray Council’s Open Space team and Community Support Unit are coordinating the project with help from parents and children.

A local authority spokesperson explained: “We are working closely with the community to ensure the park reflects the needs and wishes of those who use it.”

As set out in the 2021 Programme for Government, the Scottish Government will invest £60 million over the course of this parliament to renew public, free-to-access play parks across the country.

The capital allocation for Moray in 2024/25 is £282,000.

Minister for Children and Young People, Clare Haughey MSP, confirmed the funding supports local communities to take forward their plans to improve play parks.

She said: “Playing outdoors has huge benefits for children’s physical and mental wellbeing, and play parks ensure children can access high quality safe environments free of charge as families grapple with the cost of living crisis.”

A consultation day has been held with Pilmuir Primary pupils, and a further meeting held with parents.

The council spokesperson said: “Officers visited all classes in the school to discuss the renewal of the playpark. The meeting was held with parents at the end of the school day where it was agreed they would provide feedback throughout the process.

“We have managed to incorporate many of the top asks from pupils into the project, and a community vote will be held in early 2025 to select the winning design.”

Installation is likely to take place in the late spring, or early summer.