MSP urges Stewart Milne administrators to take charge over long-running Cornton playpark "saga"

The issue of maintenance at the playpark has been the source of frustration for locals.

The administrators for a collapsed housebuilder have been urged to hand over ownership of a Cornton playpark and nearby land which have been the source of a long-running “saga”.

The condition of the playpark and associated land has been a sore spot for residents on the Westhaugh estate for several years, with questions arising over the responsibility for upkeep between original housebuilders Stewart Milne and Stirling Council.

The pitches and playpark were built under a section 75 agreement - and Stirling Council have stated throughout that they can only carry out repairs when the land is transferred to them by Stewart Milne.

But the housebuilder has since gone into administration, with uncertainty continuing to rage locally about responsibility for repairs.

Mid Scotland and Fife Green MSP Mark Ruskell has been campaigning on the issue and has now called on Stewart Milne’s administrators, Teneo, to transfer the land as soon as possible as it continues the process of winding up assets.

Mr Ruskell said: “This saga over ownership of the playpark at Westhaugh has gone on for far too long.

“Residents have been left with crumbling play facilities and overgrown grass thanks to the inability of Stewart Milne to adequately manage its assets – both when operational, and now in administration.

“Stirling Council have been clear that they will take on ownership of the playpark – but we need Teneo to urgently transfer the land to Stirling Council at the earliest opportunity.

“I have written to Teneo requesting this – but I am yet to receive a response.

“They are being paid millions of pounds to administer the wrapping up of Stewart Milne’s assets whilst kids in the Cornton area are left without a safe, well maintained and properly looked after play area where they live.

“I hope that Teneo will act swiftly to resolve this issue – and I look forward to receiving a response to my letter.”

Among those living on the estate who have been exasperated by the lack of action has been resident Crispin Bennett, who told the Observer about the frustration that he and others living there have faced as the dispute rages on.

He also urged Stirling Council to take control of the situation and ensure the section 75 agreement between the local authority and Stewart Milne is maintained going forward.

The Observer asked Teneo for a comment on this story, but was yet to receive a response at time of going to press.

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