Darnley Park, Stirling
Darnley Park was created on a formerly neglected city centre site. With dramatic views over Stirling to the River Forth and the Ochil Hills, it forms a serene and interesting space for people living in the immediate area of high density housing, for the many visitors to Stirling's historic Old Town, and for those using it as a through route between the upper and lower parts of the town.
In developing this space, the main aim was to create a space that encouraged imaginative and child directed play, in a landscape that held local significance and meaning. The distinct but connected play spaced contain grit and sand providing safe surfaces and good play material at the same time. All actual play structures and equipment (for climbing, sliding, balancing, swinging, ball games and much else besides) have been built or chosen specifically for the site, to integrate with, complement and enhance the landscape.
Natural wooded areas on the embankment bordering the long flight of steps connecting the site to the town centre below and surrounding the ball court have been left wild, but managed in such a way as to encourage children to explore and use these areas.
Local residents, who'd first raised the need for the park were involved throughout, participating in all project meetings during the construction period and visiting the site regularly. Local children worked with playworkers, an artist and a sculptor to design, make and site special boulder features. They also formed a drum band that performed at the opening event.
Since the park opened in October 2004, a local Friends of Darnley Park group has formed to help look after and develop the space. The park is well used by both local people and visitors, and is attracting children and young people of all ages and regular work continues with local children.
Police statistics continue to record a dramatic fall in complaints, call outs and 'incidents' involving children and young people that previously characterised the area.
In 2006, a grant was made from Stirling Council's City Growth Fund towards summer events and activities in the park. In 2007, a local community group was successful in their application to the big Lottery Awards for All Programme for a grant to continue and develop this work, and to continue the regular work with local children. In March 2007, an event 'Lighting up the Park' will mark the anniversary of the arrival in Stirling of electricity with a light festival involving all the local residents.
The park was designed by Judi Legg, Play Space Designer and Page and Park Architects, Glasgow.
The contractors were Land Engineering and The Play Practice (Scotland) Ltd.
The cost of the whole scheme, including the infrastructure of paths, lighting etc. was £280,000.00.
