Galashiels MUGA officially opened
Tuesday, June 24 2008
The new multi-use games area (MUGA) in Victoria Park, Galashiels, is now up and running. It is one of a number of projects by Scottish Borders Council to improve facilities for older children and to encourage sport and exercise in the fresh air.
The facility was opened on Saturday 21 June by Councillor Len Wyse, Executive Member for Environmental Services, and local Councillor John Mitchell. The opening event included demonstrations by local teams of soccer, cricket and basketball – demonstrating how the MUGA should be used and how adaptable it can be.
Councillor Wyse said: “We are always hearing of young people sitting in front of computer screens or lounging on the sofa. Facilities such as this give them the chance to play sport away from the street, whether it’s organised or is a kick-about with their friends. The partnership funding from SBC, Eildon Housing and the Scottish Football Association that made this project possible is a great example of how using our resources together can make something achievable.”
The multi-use games area is an all-weather pitch that can typically be used for basketball, football, cricket and street hockey. It is self-contained within a fence to stop any ball games disturbing other park users. It provides free access to sports facilities – with no booking required at present (this will be reviewed once the facility is being used on a regular basis).
Councillor John Mitchell said: “This is a quality facility to help to improve the health of our children and give them somewhere to develop their sports skills. Sport Scotland recently highlighted the need to ensure the continued improvement in the quality and accessibility of pitches and open space across Scotland. This new development helps meet those needs in a cost-effective manner, using the minimum park space.”
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