Funds secured to restore Craigtoun's italian garden

This is part of the ongoing re-investing of funds which the Friends are carrying out on a year to year programme working alongside Fife Council to halt the decline and improve the Park and its facilities.

Some key features of heritage merit have been lost, damaged or are currently in a poor state of repair due to vandalism, neglect and lack of investment.

Funding of £10,000 has been secured for the Italian Garden from the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation, and the Friends have also contributed £6.000 from funding generated in the Park towards this project.

Loose stonework and missing elements will be repaired or purchased, and Fife Council gardeners will be replanting the flower beds to give that extra colour to compliment this area. The upgrading procedure has already started and many new and replacement items have been installed.

Bill Sangster of the Friends explained: “The garden has been deteriorating over the years and it has been a forgotten area in the past but it is now time to have it restored as far as possible to its original splendor for the community to enjoy for many years to come.

“There is much work to be done and we hope that this part of the procedure will be completed in the very near future. This is a lovely setting within the park and seating is being restored for the public to enjoy, which will be a wonderful quiet corner.”

Mr Sangster continued: “This is one of many items which the Friends wish to complete over the next few years and the directors and volunteers wish to thank all those who contribute towards its success. We are very thankful to all those who give generously towards the ongoing programme of upgrading and adding additional features.”

The Friends are also currently investigating restoring the park’s Dutch Village to be used by visitors to the park.