PLANS HAVE been revealed for a play park to be sited at the putting green on Rothesay Esplanade for the first time in around 40 years.
The proposed facility would see seven holes removed from the 28-hole course along the town’s seafront to allow the play equipment to be installed.
The Bute Business Improvement District (BID) was allocated funding in 2021/22 to revive the play area, known as Children’s Corner.
A decision from Argyll and Bute Council officers is expected by the end of June, with the public now able to view plans and submit feedback.
In a supporting statement, Bute BID said: “For many years, at least as far back as the 1920s, there has been an area of play and entertainment for children near the Promenade in Rothesay, known as ‘Children’sCorner’.
“Residents and long-term visitors have fond memories of this, but with the decline in tourism in the 1980s, it closed down.
“Bute BID was awarded funding from Argyll and Bute Council’s 2021/2022 Crown Estates allocation to deliver a play park to revive Children’s Corner, in response to identified community need.
“The idea aligns with the objectives for the Bute BID business plan to improve the environment and image of the island.
“The project was originally developed in partnership with local community organisations, including Project Playpark.
“The area is currently used as a putting green with 28 holes, spread over a wide area. This playpark would remove seven holes, still leaving adequate space and holes for the putting to continue, while adding a new recreational activity for families to enjoy on the Esplanade.
“Argyll and Bute amenity services team has confirmed that it is a council asset, but there is currently no lease agreement in place and playpark installation will have minimal impact on the putting green.
“The council would like to retain the option of a putting green as a facility in Rothesay with the option to play at least nine holes on the green.”
To view the plans and submit feedback, visit the council’s planning portal at argyll-bute.gov.uk and use the reference number 25/00618/PP.
