Residents and visitors gathered on Saturday to celebrate the official opening of Lochgilphead’s Front Green, following a £1.6 million transformation.
The Mid Argyll Pipe Band played as former Councillor ‘Wee Donnie’ MacMillan cut the ribbon to declare the Front Green open.
Argyll and Bute Council has led the project to transform the green and achieve a long-held community aspiration for more people to use the green for community events and general recreation.
The works included:
- Drainage to reduce the risk of flooding
- A new public square to hold community events
- Refurbishment of the Play Park
- New seating
- New walking and cycling facilities.
As part of the official opening, the council ran a photography competition asking people to share their favourite front green moments. Voted by the public on the day, Patrick Grey from Lochgilphead won with a picture of his son Ben enjoying the green on his bike. He wins an Argyll and Bute Gift Card.
Councillor Robin Currie, Policy Lead for the Economy and Rural Growth:
“Regeneration across Argyll and Bute is making a significant difference, creating vibrant communities and attracting more people and investment to the area.
We can already see there is a buzz around town with more people making the most of the new outdoor facilities. We are grateful for the support both before and during the project from the Lochgilphead Community Council.
Thanks to everyone who came along to the opening including our stallholders. We look forward to more events taking place at the new improved Front Green. ”
The Front Green is one of three council regeneration projects across Argyll and Bute shortlisted for national awards.
Funding partners for the project include; Argyll and Bute Council’s Tarbert and Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund, The Scottish Government’s Cycling, Walking and Safer Routes (CWSR), Town Centre Funds, Lochgilphead Phoenix Project and the Co-operative Local Community Fund.