We need to reclaim Dunnikier Park - one of Kirkcaldy's finest open spaces

The noise pierces through the silence like a knife through flesh.

The unmistakable, rasping sound of a bike engine going full throttle wrecks the tranquility of Dunnikier Park.

It has done for ‘way too long.

The rider could be so far in the distance he - and it’s almost always a boy - is little more than a dot on the horizon, but still the sound carries.Dunnikier Country Park deserves more respect.

Out for a walk on a recent beautiful Sunday afternoon, one bike went past on the path from the entrance near Asda, while another charged across the large, empty grass in front of the hotel. A public space turned into a private track.

Last week, the Press reported the issue again, which, coupled with rubbish being left by youths hanging around in the woods, underlines the lack of pride in our parks and amenities.

How do we change that?

Like Ravenscraig and Beveridge Parks, Dunnikier has so much to offer; history, natural beauty, peace, and stunning views from the very top of the town down across the Forth.

The path which leads from Oswald House - good to see it open once again after lockdown - takes you past two brick pillars, deep into a woodland which winds its way round Dunnikier Park Golf Club.

Pick a path, change direction and follow it to wherever it may lead.

Someone has fashioned an old-fashioned rope swing close to the edge of the course.

Branches have been fashioned into a makeshift shelter next to it. Even there, the bikes break the silence.

Ravenscraig Park - the jewel in Kirkcaldy's crown

It’s notable how few joggers there are; indeed how quiet the park is compared with Ravenscraig.

We spotted a few dog walkers, and one group on the vast, empty grassy area in which runs all the way to the main road.

It ought to have been packed with folk - and the more who use it, the more they will, by their sheer presence, start to push out the bikers, and the youths will start to feel conspicuous and, slowly, drift away.

It seems a fitting time to re-explore the park as this week marks Greener Kirkcaldy’s walking festival.

It’s the third annual event, and while the pandemic has forced many of its events online, the idea remains to inspire you to get out and about, find new walks, re-aquaint yourself with past places, and celebrate what we have on our doorsteps.

Visit Dunnikier and you’ll be following in the footsteps of Langtonians going back centuries ...and none of them ever felt the need for speed!

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