Parents have expressed their disappointment over the recent refurbishment of the Morningside Park.
There has been criticism of over the standard of the park, and its general upkeep and maintenance. The council took heed of residents’ disgruntlement, and the park recently underwent an overhaul in October/November.
Since the park re-opened, it has received mixed responses to its upgrade, with the changes receiving a lukewarm reception from many residents.
Dawn Jones, who works as a nanny, said: “Just took the eight-year-old I look after to the park. He is quite tall for his age and there is very little that’s now suitable for him. There’s a very small trampoline which won’t be sufficient during busy times. He used to love the park but now he was bored within minutes.”
There is a consensus of disapproval regarding the removal of the Helter-Skelter. Sess Kelly commented: “My 10-year-old really misses the helter-skelter, she was unimpressed with the upgrade.”
While Robert William was more concerned about the safety of the new ‘carpeted’ grounds: “Very unhappy about the state of the ground. The green area doesn’t have much cushioning and there is sand everywhere, making it very slippy. There are swings and rings missing from some of the sections”.
Beverley Kee was slightly more positive saying: “My kids quite like it. I don’t know why there is so much sand though – both my kids have slipped and hurt themselves. They do like the new swings and trampoline but think it should be bigger.”
The park, which includes a play area, tennis court and basketball hoops, is sandwiched between Balcarres Street and Morningside Drive, in the heart of Morningside. It is popular with local children and parents – particularly during the summer months and weekends.
Although the refurbishment was planned for the start of 2022, several delays meant the work finally took place in late October/early November. Councillor Neil Ross announced in October: “The council has experienced a long delay in the delivery of play equipment. However, the good news is it has now been delivered and the contractor will be installing as soon as possible.”
Some are seeing this as a missed opportunity for a complete overhaul of the area. The condition of the tennis and basketball courts continue to deteriorate, and there are no plans in the pipeline to address this.
Josie appealed to the council to “please consider refurbishing the concrete sports areas – these are falling apart and are not safe. The grass doesn’t get cut enough and the single exercise bike is just looks ridiculous. Such a half-hearted effort.”
Edinburgh Napier News has contacted the council for further comment.
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