Published Date: Sep 25th, 2024
The much-anticipated Keirs Brae play park in Cardenden has officially opened, with local children and residents celebrating the occasion. The park is the result of months of hard work by the Cardenden Playpark Committee, supported by the generous efforts of the local community and various organisations.
In March 2023, members of Cowdenbeath Area Committee committed £40,000 from the Community Recovery Fund, laying the foundation for the project. From there, the Playpark Committee, made up of dedicated local residents, launched an inspiring campaign to raise additional funds to make the dream of a new play park a reality.
Cllr Alex Campbell, Convenor of Cowdenbeath Area Committee, said: "This play park is a great example of what can be achieved when the community pulls together. The Playpark Committee and local people have done an amazing job, and it's fantastic to see the results. This park will be a special place for local families for years to come.”
The committee actively sought input and support from the community, organising a series of fundraising events that brought people together for a common cause. Highlights included:
- An afternoon show at the Bowhill Tavern, hosted by Pamela & James Davie and Bobby Dee.
- A tombola and raffle run by Linda Beveridge and local community members.
- The play park Committee ran a tombola and raffled an Xbox to raise funds at the local village fayre.
- A marathon row challenge by Aeternum CrossFit, Lochgelly, who donated part of the money they raised.
Local and national organisations also stepped up, with generous donations from:
- Cowdenbeath Community Recovery Fund
- Foundation Scotland
- Kingdom Housing Association
- Ore Valley Housing Association
- Westfield Community Fund
- Fife Environmental Trust
- Scottish Government
In June 2023, the Playpark Committee asked local residents to help choose the final design. Two options were shared on social media, and the local community were able to vote and share their views. Cardenden Primary School pupils also had their say and helped select the winning design.
The committee, supported by Fife Council’s Community Projects Team, worked tirelessly from planning to fundraising and consulting with the community. Their hard work has paid off, and the new play park is now a vibrant space for local children and families to enjoy.
The Playpark Committee also shared their excitement: "We are delighted to see so many children and families enjoying the new play park. This project has been a real team effort, and we're incredibly grateful for all the support. This is the second play park opened by Cardenden Playpark Committee and Fife Council in Cardenden, and we are in the process of a public consultation on our third!
"The Committee believe every child deserves a safe, fun, and engaging place to play within their locality, and our aim is to make this happen for every child in Cardenden. But we need more volunteers from these areas, Dundonald and Woodend, to join us. Anyone interested can contact us directly on our Facebook page.”
The new Keirs Brae play park is a brilliant example of community spirit and teamwork, creating a fun and safe space for everyone to enjoy.
Cllr Linda Erskine, Spokesperson for Communities, praised the work of the Playpark Committee and all those who had been involved in the project saying " The group have worked hard, raising funds and filling in numerous funding applications to deliver this wonderful wee play park. Keirs Brae play park may now be open but the team are not taking a break, they are already working on the consultation of the development of a new Balgreggie Park.
"This is a great opportunity to contribute to your community and if you are interested in helping in the development of Balgreggie play park, please get in touch through links available on the Cardenden Community Council facebook page. Alternatively you can attend the Cardenden Community Council next meeting on Thursday 23rd October in the Corrie Centre at 7.00pm.
