Knightswood play area gets a £35,000 festive makeover for local families

Residents at Lincoln Avenue in Knightswood welcomed the upgraded astroturf area at the bottom of the multi-storey flats.

The £35,000 transformation, funded by Wheatley Homes Glasgow through its tenant engagement Stronger Voice programme, includes the replacement of the play surface and installation of a hopscotch and snake and ladders course.

Residents shared their ideas, local children pitched in with their suggestions, and the Linkes Group worked closely with Wheatley Homes Glasgow to make sure the project met the needs of the area.

Aisling Mylrea, Managing Director at Wheatley Homes Glasgow, said: “The residents told us they wanted to see this space brought back to life and we’ve delivered on that promise.

“This project is a great example of listening to our tenants and working together to make a real difference. We’re thrilled to see this area turned into a vibrant space that young people can enjoy for years to come.”

A special launch event was held last week which saw the area lit up with fairy lights and bubble machines, with free pizza on offer too.

Khatera Ainy, 34, who lives in the community, attended the event with her two sons, Roman, 8, and Osman, 11.

She said: “My boys are having so much fun playing in the new play area. I really appreciate everyone who worked hard to update this space for my children and others on the estate. In the winter, when the weather isn’t great, it’s harder to get to the park or football pitch, so having this close to home is fantastic. They can play football and enjoy themselves right on our doorstep.”

Simon Ogundoyin, 18, who lives in the area, added: “It’s great to see everyone coming together to enjoy the new play area. It feels good knowing I played a part in making it happen.”

The project was made possible with input from the Linkes Group, a community-led initiative based in the heart of Lincoln Avenue and Kestrel Road. The group works to enhance learning and well-being while promoting a sense of community through engagement and development.

A Linkes Group spokesperson said: “Our young people were the change-makers who inspired this transformation, showing that positive change is possible when their voices are heard. Huge thanks to Wheatley for putting children and young people at the heart of the estate and making this refurbished play area a reality.”

The Lincoln Avenue astroturf replacement is one of Wheatley Homes Glasgow’s biggest community improvement projects this year.