But it has also been warned that any suggested works “will not happen immediately” and could be phased over a number of years.
Argyll and Bute Council has published the results of a public consultation on the skating pond which took place during June and July.
Improvements to the footpaths and car park have also been called for as part of over 400 responses received during the process.
Options will be presented to councillors for Helensburgh and Lomond later this year at an area committee meeting.
A graphic published by Scott and Simmons Landscape Architects said: “The information gathering questionnaire was completed by 415 users of the skating pond.
“Further consultations with other stakeholders helped to crystallise the ideas of how the pond could be improved. We hope you recognise some of the things that you said should be improved.
“What actually gets built will depend on a number of factors including engineering, ecology, maintenance, access and cost.
“Any work will not happen immediately and could be phased over a number of years. Options will be assessed using an evaluation matrix to see what variants give best value and fulfil the most aspirations.”
The graphic added: “The most comments suggested clearing vegetation and clutter from the pond to give more open water. This may impact the biodiversity by reducing the numbers of plants and invertebrates.
“If too little vegetation is removed then the pond cannot be used for model boating or skating if it freezes. A balanced solution may be possible. In all options we must consider the maintenance operations needed to keep the pond usable.
“If the pond can be cleared enough to allow model boating a simple launching platform could be installed. A deck could be constructed to allow access for pond dipping. This could have an interpretation board highlighting what might be found.
“It is recognised that the paths are degrading and need to be resurfaced to maintain access for all. The deck is failing and a new design for the path at this point is required. Along the path existing furniture is rotting and could be repaired or replaced.
“The main entrance and car park are in need of improvement. Traffic speeds on the main road are too high, so traffic calming measures could be considered. This would help pedestrian access to the site.
“The car park layout is inefficient and not lined, making it a free for all. This also could be improved. All entrances and the overall boundary could be improved by better fencing and gates.”
Addressing a recent meeting of the council’s Helensburgh and Lomond community planning group, landscape architect Jon Simmons said that “doing nothing is not an option.”
Anybody wishing to submit views to the architects can do so until Thursday, September 25 by emailing [email protected]
