The village of John O’Groats may soon gain a major new play facility after organisers announced they had raised in excess of £500,000 to fund a maritime‑themed playpark beside Folke Park. A planning application has been submitted to Highland Council, with a consultation period running until 28 July.
Community fundraising reaches target
The scheme has been driven by local volunteers working with the John O’Groats Development Trust. The development trust and its supporters say the playpark has been the result of around four and a half years of effort, combining grant awards and community fundraising events.
“We’ve got everything we need now – we’re over half a million.”
Organisers say the project is intended as a memorial to Julie McGee, a local woman who died suddenly in April 2021 at the age of 44. The trust’s treasurer described the ambition as creating a destination playpark for the north Highlands.
What the park will include
Subject to planning approval, the installation will be carried out by playground supplier Kompan. Planned features highlighted by the organisers include:
- Swings and climbing frames
- A seven‑metre chute (described by organisers as roughly the height of “two giraffes”)
- A double zip‑line
- All‑abilities equipment to promote inclusive play
- Adult outdoor gym apparatus
The surface design will reflect the local coastline, with a wet‑pour area shaped to represent the headland.
Funding breakdown
Organisers say the money came via a mix of grant funding and local fundraising. The development trust has reported securing a substantial portion through formal awards, with additional sums raised at community events.
| Source | Amount/Notes |
|---|---|
| Grants (Community Regeneration, wind farm trusts, National Lottery, NRS) | £343,334 |
| Community fundraising events | More than £160,000 |
| Total reported | Over £500,000 |
Next steps and local impact
Highland Council’s planning consultation remains open until 28 July; if consent is granted, organisers hope the park could be installed and operational by spring next year. The project team has emphasised the park’s potential to attract visitors, improve local recreational provision and provide inclusive play opportunities for residents and families across the north Highlands.
As the application is considered, residents and interested parties can respond to the council consultation. The development trust has said it will proceed with installation arrangements if planning permission is granted.
The proposal marks one of the larger community‑led greenspace investments in the area in recent years and, if realised, will add a significant recreational asset beside the Folke Park football ground.
