THE ‘Bannerfield Active’ scheme for new play areas and a multi-use pitch was unanimously backed by councillors at a meeting of the planning committee on Monday, writes Adam Drummond.
Presenting the proposal, development control manager John Hayward said: “This is a welcome investment into recreational resources at this end of the town.”
Selkirkshire councillor Michelle Ballantyne said: “This is an important facility for youngsters and people who live in Bannerfield.”
She added: “This is a very positive thing for the community.”
Coldstream councillor Donald Moffat also gave the scheme his full backing.
“I am all in favour of this sort of thing. We should have more facilities like this in the Borders,” he said.
Whilst there was some discussion regarding the proposed surface of the multi-use games area, and the facilities it will provide, members were content for the fine details to be agreed with planning officers.
The equipment tentatively included in the plans for the playpark areas includes ‘springy seat animals’ and a pirate ship with sand play area for toddlers.
For older children it is planned that there will be swings, timber climbing routes, play mound, ‘adventure tunnel’, zip-wire, roundabout and ‘disc swings’. Existing equipment will also be used.
Because the scheme is subject to a Big Lottery Fund application, the approval includes a degree of flexibility for the final equipment installed.