Coltness kids who have spent the summer holidays looking for a playpark in their local area are demanding the council take action.
Fed up children and their parents have organised a petition calling on NLC to install a new play area as soon as possible.
The residents, based in Lauder Crescent, North Dryburgh Road, Buchan Street, Louden Street and Langholm Crescent, have been busy over the past few weeks securing more signatures as they step up their campaign.
The petition, organised by Coltness woman Delia O’Hagan, states: “Our community currently has no local children’s play area. The nearest equipped playground is Belhaven Park, approximately 24 minutes’ walk away.
“A playpark previously existed within our community but was removed and never replaced.
“We respectfully ask North Lanarkshire Council to: Recognise the lack of local play provision.
“Assess the former playpark site at Lauder Crescent. If the original site is not suitable, assess Lauder Park or other suitable surrounding council-owned grassed areas for a new neighbourhood playpark.
“Consult with local residents and provide a modern, accessible neighbourhood playground.”
Local resident Les Hoey has backed the children’s campaign.
He said: “Years ago there was a park in Lauder Crescent but it was taken away and was never replaced.
“We have spoken to councillors who have said they will try and get some funding for us.
“There has been new playparks in Cambusnethan, Cleland, Wishaw and Newmains but there is nothing here in Coltness for the kids to do.
“So we need to try and do something for them. As well as councillors I’ve also spoken to Clare Adamson MSP who is going to take this on for us.”
A spokesperson for North Lanarkshire Council said: “We have not yet received the petition, but once it is submitted it will be processed in line with the council’s petitions procedure.
“Any petition is first reviewed by our Legal Services team before being passed to the relevant service to action in terms of the petition procedure.
“We welcome opportunities to engage with local communities and would be happy to explore any proposals for potential local projects.
“Our Community Partnership Team has a strong track record of working alongside residents to help develop ideas for projects that benefit local communities.
Article continues below
“We remain committed to investing in high-quality play spaces across North Lanarkshire. Most recently, we opened two new play facilities in Wishaw, providing children, young people and families with safe, accessible and enjoyable places to play, be active and spend time together in their communities.”
*Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.