Blantyre health plan is a success

Aug 6 2009 by Chris Clements, Hamilton Advertiser

THE Healthy Park Project at the TACT Community Hall, Blantyre, received its official opening on Sunday, with community figures in attendance.

South Lanarkshire provost Russell Clearie was the guest speaker at the opening event and praised the dedication of the hall’s committee members in bringing the project to a successful conclusion as well as the healthy lifestyle which is being promoted by the initiative.

The project, which has been growing steadily in the past few months, focuses on gardening and the environment, providing people with the opportunity to get involved and learn how to grow their own vegetables and plants.

The Hillview Drive hall now boasts a polytunnel, which has herb and vegetable gardens and raised flower beds, plus a workshop for joinery and other projects.

The facility has been hailed a success by provost Clearie and has provided the Blantyre community with a steady supply of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Provost Clearie continued: “I am delighted to have been asked back again to the project so soon to help celebrate yet another great asset for the whole community to enjoy.

“TACT and their committee have for many years ensured that the people of Blantyre and beyond have access to the very best community facilities around.

“I have no doubt that this Healthy Park will provides not only a tremendous boost to the activities of so many people but will make them that bit healthier as well.

“Understanding about food and where it comes from is a great way of educating everyone into leading healthier lives which is something we all should be strving to achieve.”

Councillor Jim Handibode was also full of praise for the site.

He told the Advertiser: “It really is a focal point for the Coatshill community and is teaching people about healthier eating.

“I have already been instructed to bring home some fresh vegetables!

“The whole Healthy Park concept is really very good and is a great resource for Blantyre.”

Project chairman Bill Pinkerton added:“The polytunnel and the raised beds are already well established at the centre.

“Residents from Coatshill have been using the facility, coming to get fresh vegetables for charitable donations.”

The people behind the scheme now hope the centre will become a focal point for Blantyre.