Flying into Spring at Cannich Play Park!

At the end of March, we had the pleasure of visiting Cannich Play Park to celebrate the installation of a brand-new 30-metre cableway, marking the first phase of a community-driven project to upgrade the park and make it an even better space for local children and families. This initiative was developed by the Strathglass and Affric Community Company (SACC), with input from Cannich Bridge Primary School pupils, and was supported by a range of stakeholders, including Soirbheas and Highland Council.

Celebrating community spirit! Cannich Primary pupils join local leaders and supporters during the launch of the new cableway at Cannich Play Park, proudly holding the giant cheque. (Left to right: Maria Reynard, Kara Scott, David Fraser, and Karen Steel).

The journey to this moment has been years in the making. The project began four years ago when Cannich Bridge Primary School pupils approached Cllr David Fraser with ideas for improving the park. The children provided drawings and shared their ideas for the park’s future, and the project quickly gained momentum, culminating in this fantastic first phase.

From Classroom Creativity to Playground Reality – The pupils of Cannich Bridge Primary School’s original zipline design is now a thrilling feature in their community park!

Soirbheas is proud to have played a role in supporting this project through our Tier 2 Grant Programme, awarding £14,306 to part-fund the installation of the cableway. This grant is part of Soirbheas’ mission to help fund community-led projects that create lasting positive impacts. The project was also generously supported by Highland Council, who contributed £7,000 towards the costs.

“It’s fantastic to see the cableway in action and already such a hit with local families. We’re proud to have part-funded this project – a great example of our Tier 2 grant programme supporting community-led ideas that have real local impact.”
– Kara Scott, Community Development Officer, Soirbheas

“It is four years since I was first approached by the pupils of Cannich Bridge Primary and they talked about their ideas for the park… The result is brilliant.”
– Cllr David Fraser, Local Councillor, who has been a driving force behind the project

“I’m delighted that we now have the addition of a zip line and monkey bars to our fantastic park and grateful to David for driving this project.”
– Karen Steel, SACC, who led the community engagement and fundraising efforts

Kara Scott of Soirbheas and Councillor David Fraser brave the Scottish rain to test out the new zipline at Cannich Play Park – all in the name of fun and community spirit!

A Vision for the Future

The Cannich Play Park upgrade is a community-driven success story, with ongoing input from local families, children, and key stakeholders. The installation of the cableway is just the beginning. There are still exciting plans in the pipeline, including the installation of a trim trail and pump track, which will provide even more recreational opportunities for kids of all ages.

The project has also received the full backing of the community. The new play equipment is already being used enthusiastically by local children, and the park is becoming a hub for creativity and outdoor fun. The work at the park is aligned with Soirbheas’ goal of helping to create sustainable and vibrant spaces that foster connection and well-being within communities.

Project Partners

Strathglass and Affric Community Company (SACC): The lead organisation behind the project, working tirelessly to engage with the community and ensure the park meets the needs of its users.
Cannich Bridge Primary School: Their pupils were the inspiration behind the project, providing valuable input and ideas for the park’s design.
Highland Council: A crucial partner, providing significant financial support and committing to the ongoing maintenance and inspection of the park.
Local Councillors: Especially Cllr David Fraser, who has championed the project and played a central role in bringing the vision to life.

This community-driven initiative is an excellent example of what can be achieved when local people come together, supported by funding and a shared vision. We’re excited to see how the park continues to evolve and become an even greater asset for the Strathglass area.