MyEDC

    Technical Notes 2025, Issue 179 - Merkland Play Area – Recent Safety Inspection

    • Report by:

      Ann Davie, Chief Executive

    • TN Number:

      179-25

    • Subject:

      Merkland Play Area – Recent Safety Inspection

    • Responsible Officer:

      Stephen Egan, Team Leader - Streetscene Technical Support

    • Publication:

      This Technical Note will be published on the Council’s website following circulation to Members. Its contents may be disclosed or shared outwith the Council.

    • This Technical Note has been written to update Elected Members on the current situation at the play area located in Merkland Recreation facility in Kirkintilloch

    • The Play Area has been the subject of regular and routine vandalism over the past 3 years and is currently closed for any access with the use of fencing panels. Regrettably these are also being vandalised and consequently further damage is occurring to the play area

    • An independent Safety Inspection was undertaken during September 2025 and the recommendation from the ROSPA engineer is to completely remove the facility. Arrangements therefore will be made to engage a suitable contractor and remove all fencing and equipment from site in the short term

    • In terms of a new facility or potential upgrading of other adjacent play areas, this will be the subject of local consultation – initially via the Local Housing providers and thereafter with our stakeholders

    • Timescales around this have still to be determined and will be influenced by the initial feedback from the Housing Associations – thereafter wider engagement will be undertaken to ensure the community are fully involved in any investment decisions regarding new or existing play facilities.