The area was full of youngsters this week as they enjoyed the Easter Holidays outside in the sunshine.
Just one more piece of equipment needs to be installed before the £210,000 project is fully completed and then there will be an official opening ceremony.
Annandale East and Eskdale councillor Archie Dryburgh chaired the Gretna Play Park Steering Group, which included a small number of Gretna and Rigg Community Council members and other local individuals, while ward officer Stuart Hamilton and community assets manager Nicola Simpson both gave great support to the project.
Funding came from various sources, they were: EDF Beckburn Windfarm; local fundraising; Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Play Park Renewal Fund; the Coastal Benefit Fund; and Council Developer Contributions.
Cllr Dryburgh said: “The project started about 15 or 16 months ago when a group from the community council, Sparklers Nursery and Gretna Primary School got together.
“There’s one more bit to go in behind the bus shelter and hopefully by the end of April it will be in place.”
He added: “It’s thanks to the grit and determination of the community. It’s absolutely fantastic to see. A couple of years ago there was nothing in the park.
“We have now got a good play park in the centre of Gretna that kids from all age groups can play in.
“There’s something for everyone there, and let’s hope they use it respectfully.”
Group volunteer Becky Dent added: “I am delighted that the play park in Gretna is now over the line and open. Our first meeting was November 2023 and to have a finished park by March 2025 is amazing!
“The children of Gretna and of course surrounding areas will benefit greatly from this new park.”
Thanks were expressed to the park contractor, the community, ward officer Stuart Hamilton and community assets manager Nicola Simpson.
