Community effort swings into action for new Kirkcaldy playpark

The new facility replaces a previous park which was deemed unfit for purpose after it was targeted by vandals several years ago.

Members of the community joined representatives from Fife Council and community worker Leah Levein in a massive joint effort to upgrade the park, which saw surveys and consultations carried out asking parents and children what play equipment they would like to see included.

And, as well as the usual climbing frames and swings, there are several pieces which are suitable for children with disabilities as they are wheelchair accessible.

There are also planters for flowers around the perimeter, picnic benches and metal fencing.

Rab O’Donnell, secretary of the Linktown Tenants’ and Residents’ Association said the finished project was the result of a great community effort.

“When we asked what local people wanted in the Links, the main answer was more play facilities.

“Working together through the Neighbourhood Development Plan, we managed to get funding that we needed to get started and we are delighted with the finished result.

“There is still work to be done such as the planting which the local children from the youth club and school will be involved in and the planters were all made specially for the park by the Community Payback people which was great.

“The contractors Hawthorn Heights, were brilliant and worked in all weathers to ensure it was finished on time.

“It is being really well used and is always busy after school and at weekends. We hope it will be well looked after by the community.”

Clair Lovett, parks development officer with Fife Council, added: “The community has put in a lot of work in this and it is great to see it finally complete.”

Lizzy Halstead, a local play leader and member of Families United, a group set up to help local families, said the new park was a great addition to the local area.

“The children all love it and it is being really well used,” she said.