Estimated Price

£80,000

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Summary

Revitalising the existing green space at Glenconnor with provision of a MUGA , running track and play trail. This will encourage greater use of green space and provide opportunities for physical activity and play, contributing to a sense of pride and ownership in the community. The unique aspect of a track for running, cycling and skateboarding will increase the utilisation of the space through multiple sports possibilities.

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Description

The proposed project aims to transform the Glenconnor green space in Linlathen into a vibrant, multi-functional hub for recreation, fitness, and community engagement. At the heart of this initiative is the development of a floodlit Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), a modern running track, and a play trail designed for all ages. These enhancements build upon the existing, yet underutilised, small games area—addressing residents' requests for an upgraded space that better serves the community’s needs and aspirations. A Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) is a flexible outdoor space designed for various sports and activities, including football, basketball, netball, hockey, and general exercise. These areas promote inclusivity, efficient land use, community cohesion, and health. MUGAs are cost-effective and easy to maintain, making them valuable assets for communities and schools. The addition of a track around the perimeter of the games area is a unique aspect and can be utilised by people of all ages for running, cycling and skateboarding. The attached design plan offers a visual representation of the revitalised green space, demonstrating how thoughtful planning and community input can work hand-in-hand to create accessible and dynamic environments. The intention is for the project to be supported with funding through Environmental Improvements via Dundee City Council- pending committee process, with a total funding cost of £180k. The application to the Neighbourhood Capital Fund is seeking an £80,000 contribution to this total. By investing in these facilities, the project seeks to encourage greater use of the green space, promote healthier lifestyles, and foster stronger social connections among residents. The enhanced amenities will not only provide new opportunities for physical activity and play but also contribute to a sense of pride and ownership within the community. Ultimately, the improved Linlathen green spaces will stand as a testament to the power of local engagement and collective action in building inclusive, resilient neighbourhoods. The opportunity to develop this space links directly with outcomes in the East End Community Plan including “Improving Green and Open Spaces” and “Increasing opportunities for Physical Activity”. This is also aligned with recommendations in the Linlathen Narrative Inquiry, which suggests the establishment of community green spaces or gardens through collaborations between local residents and Dundee City Council. The video link in the attachments shows the issue of improving green and play spaces being raised by a broad section of the local community.

Local residents, through their involvement in the Linlathen Local Fairness Initiative, have played a pivotal role in shaping the vision for this project. Their feedback and participation in leadership development workshops have directly informed the design and priorities, ensuring the improvements reflect what matters most to those living in the area. A total of 26 people were consulted through an outreach approach targeting households on the periphery of the site across several streets. Outreach engagement at the local food larder and family activity group took place. The majority view was strongly positive, with 25 out of 26 supporting the MUGA and all participants in favour of installing new lights, though some concerns were raised about potential vandalism and anti-social behaviour. Residents suggested including activities like football, tennis, and resources for toddlers, and emphasised community engagement—particularly involving local youth—to ensure the project's success. Local residents were also invited to an open information session through social media advertising and a leaflet drop. There was a low turnout to this information session, however community members were given the opportunity to make objections should they wish. There is evidence of wider community backing for a project of this nature as the improving spaces to play and be physically active was one of the main themes that was reported through the community priorities survey for the Neighbourhood Capital Fund. Linlathen faces challenges such as limited availability of sports facilities, increasing youth inactivity and related health issues along with several data zones in Linlathen falling within decile 1 or 2 in SIMD, indicating very high levels of deprivation.