Regeneration of Hermitage Park gets underway with turf-cutting event

A successful turf-cutting event has signalled the start of construction work to regenerate Hermitage Park in Helensburgh.The event was attended by representatives of the community, funders, local councillors and officers associated with the £3.3 million restoration and redevelopment of the urban park with the ceremonial first piece of turf was cut by Chris Packard, former Chairman of the Friends of Hermitage Park Association.Specialist landscape contractors, Hawthorn Heights, have been awarded the £1.6 million contract for the landscaping and conservation phase of the ambitious project.The company bring an in-house playground expert and experienced water and fountain specialists to help deliver the regeneration of the park. They will be using local contractors to undertake much of the work.The regeneration of the park is set to cost £3.3 million. £2.3 million has been awarded by the Heritage Lottery, Parks for People fund.Other funders include Sustrans, the Armed Forces Covenant Fund and the Friends of Hermitage Park. Argyll and Bute Council has contributed £280,000.The council and the Friends of Hermitage Park Association formed a delivery steering group to support the heritage-led regeneration of the park. The group provides direction, information and guidance to ensure the success of the project. Helensburgh Community Council and the Ministry of Defence are also represented on the group.Initial works include the demolition of the toilet block, the Japanese shelter and the conservation work to the war memorial.The park will remain open throughout the works with only the areas being redeveloped being closed safety reasons. An interpretation point will be set up to allow people to access and monitor progress.Activities will take place throughout the building period to encourage people to engage with and play a part in the redevelopment of the park.