Before the outdoor gym was developed residents had to travel outside the village to access facilities but this was problematic to residents who relied on public transport which could be sometimes unreliable. The cost of accessing a gym could also be prohibitive to people.
These barriers to participation meant that some residents were denied the opportunity to gain the well documented benefits that participating in these types of leisure activities brings. Plains Community Futures wanted to develop a facility in the village and successfully applied to the Lottery and Community Solutions for grants totalling £13,000. The group then approached the Community Partnership Team for advice on developing such a facility and potential match funding options.
The group submitted a project proposal form requesting support through the Local Development Programme. The proposal was approved by Airdrie Community Board. The Community Partnership team continued to liaise with the group, provided advice on outdoor fitness equipment and developed the design specification with the group. The group consulted on design proposals and provided progress updates to the wider community via their social media channels.
