One of Inverness’s best-loved green spaces has reopened to the public after a £500,000 transformation, delivering a vibrant and inclusive new play experience for families across the Highlands.
Whin Park now boasts a striking set of new features designed with children’s ideas at its heart, and shaped by one of the widest public consultations of its kind in the area.
At the official opening at the end of May, local pupils from St Joseph’s and Muirtown Primary Schools, Millburn Academy students and pipers from Inverness Royal Academy joined councillors and guests for a lively ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Cllr Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness and Area, said the project had been driven by community voices from the start.
“I’m delighted this has been delivered,” he said.
“Thank you to everyone who took part in the consultation, especially the young people.
“Their ideas have helped shape a sustainable, inclusive play space for all ages and abilities.
“We now have a park we can all be proud of.”
Over 77 percent of respondents backed the winning design, which was brought to life by Jupiter Play & Leisure Ltd and installed by Play Works Ltd.
The new playground includes an imaginative Nessie-themed sculpture, the eye-catching Legend Seeker play ship, an adventure mound with scramble net and tube slide, and the Highlands’ first ever Sona Interactive Dance Arch.
This unique feature uses audio and gaming technology to encourage active outdoor play in a way that’s as fun as it is inclusive.
There are also climbing frames, swings and accessible features to make sure every child, whatever their ability, feels welcome.
Cllr Graham MacKenzie, Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, said the park upgrades offered far more than just play.
“Interaction and play are essential for young people’s development,” he said.
“These changes mean children of all abilities can enjoy playing together in a safe and exciting environment.”
Michael Hoenigmann, Managing Director of Jupiter Play & Leisure Ltd, praised the collaboration with Highland Council.
“This was an ambitious project, completed on time and on budget.
“We’ve created a space that’s not only inclusive and fun but also designed to stand up to the Scottish weather.”
Funding for the project came from several sources, including £234,988 from the Scottish Government Play Area Fund, £150,000 from the Inverness Common Good Fund and £102,000 from the Community Regeneration Fund.
Whin Park’s ever-popular boating pond, the miniature Ness Islands Railway and on-site refreshments are still in place, now enhanced by a striking new play zone that adds fresh energy to the park’s appeal.
Public toilets have also been refurbished to support the park’s improved accessibility, completing a full refresh of this cherished outdoor space.
The Council also offered special thanks to local florist Flowers by Lee for their kind donation of the ribbon used at the opening ceremony.
