Play Park boost for Dingwall and Seaforth communities

Children and families across Dingwall and Seaforth will soon enjoy upgraded and improved play facilities thanks to nearly £87,000 of investment approved today (25 August 2025) by the Dingwall and Seaforth Area Committee. 

The funding, part of the Scottish Government’s Play Park Renewal Programme, will support a wide range of enhancements across the Ward. 

Cllr Graham MacKenzie, Chair of the Dingwall and Seaforth Area Committee, said: “This is fantastic news for our communities. Play parks are at the heart of family life, and investing in them supports children’s health and wellbeing while strengthening our neighbourhoods. I’m delighted we are delivering these improvements across the Ward.” 

The agreed programme of works includes: 

• MacDonald Road, Dingwall – installation of a seesaw and upgraded surfacing under the swings (£7,000) 

• Pefferside Park, Dingwall – installation of a new multi-unit, replacement of stone chips with grass matting, and a new teen shelter in the senior section (£35,000) 

• Seaforth Place Recreation Park, Maryburgh – installation of a roundabout (£5,500) 

• Conon Bridge Football Park – installation of a trim trail (£6,500) 

• Highfield Circle, Muir of Ord – installation of a new swing set (£5,000) 

• Tarradale Primary, Muir of Ord – installation of a basket swing, seesaw, and picnic bench (£16,360) 

• Docharty Road, Dingwall – construction of a pump track and trim trail (£11,500)  

To ensure the upgrades reflected local needs, pupils in local schools were asked to share their ideas and preferences. Their feedback highlighted the popularity of new swings, climbing features, and spaces for older children and teenagers — priorities which have now been built into the plans. 

Cllr Sean Kennedy welcomed the wide reach of the investment: “Parents and carers need safe, modern, accessible places for their children to play. These upgrades—from new swings in Muir of Ord to the exciting pump track in Dingwall—will give children more reasons to get outdoors, be active, and have fun.” 

The improvements are designed not only to renew equipment but also to make play areas more inclusive. 

Cllr Angela MacLean emphasised the importance of accessibility: “Inclusivity is a priority. The addition of basket swings, improved surfacing, and other accessible facilities will make a real difference.  Every child deserves a place where they can play safely alongside their friends.” 

With works taking place across Dingwall, Conon Bridge, Maryburgh, and Muir of Ord, the upgrades are set to benefit a wide cross-section of local families. 

Cllr Margaret Paterson said: “This investment demonstrates our commitment to our local communities. We know how highly valued these spaces are, and by delivering improvements across the Dingwall and Seaforth area, we’re ensuring that as many families as possible benefit.” 

Maryburgh play park