A new Playpark for All could be up and running in Castle Douglas by June.
The facility will be created at Lochside Park as a social and recreational hub for the community.
Designs for the long-awaited attraction were discussed at a public meeting in the town last Wednesday.
The event, organised by Castle Douglas Development Forum, saw additional features added to the blueprint in response to public demand.
After the meeting, CDDF’s Carolyn Yates said: “This has been quite a long time coming due to the pandemic.
“That had a big impact on the companies tendering for the contract.
“The intention is that the playpark will be open by June in time for the summer holidays.
“There will be fenced off play area with a zip-wire and accessible play equipment for young children.
“And with safety in mind, it will have a rubberised wetpour surface – which means there will be no grass to cut or muddy areas through heavy usage.”
Dumfries and Galloway Council community assets manager, Nicola Simpson, presented the designs and summarised their respective merits.
The community’s finalised choice has now gone to the council which will run the tendering process and award the contract. Officers will also manage the build on behalf of the forum.
Design additions to be added under the Changing Places scheme include a chill out area for young people, a sensory garden and quiet seating area – all part of CDDF’s longer term plans.
Ms Yates said: “This is just the start. Thanks to the Holywood Trust, who will fund the Changing Places facility, accessible pathways and fitness equipment for young adults.
“We are also grateful to the town’s common good fund, which has added a sheltered gazebo with a wheelchair and pram-friendly table and seating to the plan.
“Because of this valuable support we have been able to enhance the designs we looked at.”
She added: “We thank all the community and organisations in the town and local area who have given advice, donations and encouragement.
“We are particularly grateful for the advice and support given to us by council officers over the past three years, despite the impact of the pandemic on their workload.”
Among those present at the meeting were councillors John Young and Pauline Drysdale, the Holywood Trust, CDDF trustees and staff and other members of the community.
CDDF is continuing to fundraise for the playpark because of rising costs of materials and labour.
Anyone wishing to make a donation or learn more about the Playpark for All can contact cddfchairpseron@gmail.com
