The Wooddean Project was initiated in 2011 by Bothwell Community Council and since then a huge amount of preparatory work has been done by local activists who have now formed the Wooddean Community Project Organisation, an incorporated charity, to take the project forward in partnership with the landowners, South Lanarkshire Council.

South Lanarkshire Council developed the initial Wooddean concept plan, prepared in consultation with the local community and schools, into a set of design proposals for the project. This overall masterplan established a vision for the new park combining formal sport, children’s play, adult recreation and an appreciation of the natural environment and its setting. The project objective is to provide year-round facilities, incorporating elements that can be used and enjoyed by all ages and which will result in the revitalised Wooddean becoming a green hub for the local and wider communities. Key elements of the masterplan include:

· An improved football pitch for ball sports and events use

· A new access point to the Park, providing car parking, cycle racks and a new entrance at Clyde Terrace

· A natural wood play environment with zip wire and a slide to create a dynamic adventure play environment 

· An improved wetland area with boardwalk access to encourage biodiversity in the area

· A bike track using the natural hill contours to provide a challenging environment for young people

· A network of paths throughout the Park 

· Signage and interpretation throughout the Park to ensure users recognise the opportunities for wider walks, trails and links to other local sites of interest.

In 2018 it was decided that the project should best proceed in Two Phases. Detailed design of Phase 1 will commence early in 2019 with a possible site start programmed for the Autumn. This, however, is subject to the full tendered Phase 1 Cost Target being met through planning gain monies already pledged and a planned programme of fundraising activities and grant applications.

Phase 1 of the project will incorporate a state of the art Childrens’ Play Area and will include all site preparation, drainage and landworks to the south eastern part of the site, together with the initial stages of the path network.

Phase 2 will follow on after further fundraising and will include all drainage to the north western part of the site. The existing sports field will be drained and enhanced to be used as a multi purpose surface to support both sports and non-sport events. Further Adventure Play equipment will be incorporated, the path network will be completed and a natural Wetland Area established to the west of the Park. 

South Lanarkshire Council, who own Wooddean Park, will manage the implementation of work on site and will have responsibility for the Park’s ongoing maintenance. The project will not commence, however, until all of the Phase 1 costs have been raised or pledged. The first major project milestone is finally within sight and the Wooddean Community Project Organisation is currently coordinating a fundraising push to allow Phase1 to commence this year. If you are interested in helping in any way please get in touch with us. Donations, however small, will be hugely appreciated and can be made using this link to our charitable giving page.