Despite nearly £2 million worth of improvements being made, little thought has been given to road safety around MacRosty Park, Crieff, according to local MSP Elizabeth Smith.
Construction is under way at the popular park as a wealth of changes are made in a bid to encourage young people and families to make even greater use of its facilities.
However, while Ms Smith is delighted to see the work taking place, she believes that some important areas have been overlooked-not least road safety surrounding the park.
The Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP said she believes users leaving the new and improved park in particular mothers and youngsters will need protection from the A85, something that is not provided by the grey area that surrounds the park and its boundaries.
Ms Smith said, “The developments taking place at MacRosty Park in Crieff have the potential to be a huge asset to Crieff but there are some safety concerns to be considered when it comes to the boundary definitions of the park and the A85.
“I have long campaigned on the subject of road safety on the A85 and this particular section is very important, given the high number of visitors to The Knock who exit Crieff Hydro property onto the A85 south pavement between MacRosty Park and the playing fields belonging to Ardvreck.
“I have written to Transport Scotland to ask for clarification as soon as possible as this information will be very helpful to the local community.”
Work began on the multi-million pound regeneration of MacRosty Park in August, with contractor JKF Ltd of Methil moving on to the site.Completion imminentThe construction part of the £1,847,000 project is due to be completed in December, with funding having come from a variety of sources.
The Heritage Lottery Fund awarded a grant of £1,161,500 to the regeneration plans, with additional cash coming from Perth and Kinross Council and partners including the Gannochy Trust, the Souter Trust, Crieff Rotary Club, the Ancaster Trust, Ardvreck School and many members of the public.
The former tennis pavilion is being refurbished and extended to become a multi-functional building providing a venue for community activities.
New semi-automated toilets will be provided next to the pavilion, near the new play facilities and the water play area, a move that aims to bring the park to life again for children and families.
Improvements are also being made to the park’s paths and bridges to ensure that all users can access the range of attractions it provides.
In addition, many of MacRosty Park’s fascinating historic features will be restored including the Edwardian bandstand, which will be available for summer concerts and water will be reintroduced to the medieval lade running through the park.