Greenwards Play Park Consultation
We asked for local views on the options for play equipment next to Greenwards Primary School, Elgin. This play park is located on HRA (Housing Revenue Account) land. The HRA is a ring-fenced account funded by the rent paid by Council tenants.
The online survey was open between 7 February and 14 March 2025, with paper copies available on request. Thank you to everyone who shared their views about the future of the play park! Here's what you told us:
Survey findings
Who responded to the survey?
• 109 people responded to the survey.
• Of these responses, 44 were from tenants (40%).
What should happen to the park?
• 95% want new play equipment.
• Only 5% want to clear and seed the area.
What kind of play equipment?
• Most people (81%) want similar equipment to what was there before.
• 7% prefer play equipment for under 5’s.
• 11% prefer equipment for a mixture of ages.
Who’ll be using the Park?
• 84% of responses came from parents or carers of children who would use the park.
• The majority (93%) of respondents bring children aged between 5 and 12 years to the park.
• However, a significant number of respondents (38%) bring children under 5 years to the park.
Additional needs
• Wheelchair access, sensory play features, and seating areas were highlighted as important in comments.
What’s important
• A good variety of equipment.
• Having a picnic area/seating.
• Making sure the park is easy for everyone to access.
• Safe fencing around the park.
Other comments
• Many people said they missed the old park and felt it was a loss to the community.
• People want durable, traditional equipment (like swings, slides, and climbing frames).
• Some pointed out the school park can’t always be used during the day, so having a public park open all day is important.
Next steps
We want to set up a community steering group of local residents to help develop a project to replace the play equipment. The group will also explore options to boost the budget with additional fundraising.
This will be a participatory budgeting project, meaning the community will help decide how the budget is spent. Participatory budgeting allows residents to propose and vote on projects, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and considered.
Get involved and make a difference
If you’re interested in taking part and attending the next meeting, please get in touch by emailing tenantparticipation@moray.gov.uk or call 0300 123 4566.
Upcoming meeting
- Monday 23 June, 10am to 12 noon in The Annexe at New Elgin & Ashgrove Public Hall, Land Street, Elgin, IV30 6BL