Falkirk Council to deliver £2m local improvements
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Falkirk Council’s deputy leader, Cllr Paul Garner (centre left), with council officers at the site of the former Royal Hotel in Slamannan. The site is to be transformed into a pocket park
Falkirk Council is delivering a £2 million investment to enhance public spaces, improve accessibility, and create new recreational opportunities across Bonnybridge, Slamannan, Dunipace, and Bainsford and Langlees.
The projects, shaped by community consultation to ensure they reflect local priorities, are being funded through the Regeneration Fund, which was approved in 2023 to support infrastructure improvements in our town centres and smaller villages.
Initially, £500,000 was allocated for Bonnybridge and £500,000 for Slamannan, with an additional £1m to be split equally between Dunipace and Bainsford and Langlees to deliver community-driven regeneration.
Community feedback identified key areas for improvement in Bonnybridge and Slamannan. Planned enhancements include:
- Better access and public realm improvements at Bonnybridge Toll
- Improved accessibility in Memorial Park, Bonnybridge, with new pathways, seating, landscaping and a dedicated flagpole area
- A new pump track at Anderson Park, Bonnybridge, offering space for cycling and other wheeled sports
- A new pocket park at the former site of the Royal Hotel in Slamannan to include seating and a tree planted that, once matured, will become the village’s festive tree
- Resurfacing, new seating and improved public realm works at Slamannan Cross
- Restoration of Slamannan’s town clock
A 12-week community consultation completed last month (January 2025) identified priorities for Dunipace, with residents calling for improvements to key areas, including:
- Tackling traffic congestion on Stirling Street and Barnego Road by exploring new parking solutions
- Enhancing public spaces to create a stronger sense of arrival and identity
- Installing better lighting and upgrading walking routes and play areas
While feedback from residents in Bainsford and Langlees highlighted concerns around safety, cleanliness and community facilities. Key priorities include:
- Improving Coo Park to address anti-social behaviour and encourage greater community use
- Tackling litter and waste management in identified hotspot areas
- Developing a community growing space to foster local engagement and sustainability
Council officers are currently reviewing community feedback to develop a shortlist of viable projects for Dunipace and Bainsford and Langlees, with final proposals expected to be agreed in September 2025.
Councillor Paul Garner, Falkirk Council’s deputy leader and spokesperson for Economic Development, said: “Investing in our town centres and smaller settlements is crucial to ensuring all our communities benefit from improved spaces and facilities. This funding will help create welcoming, accessible environments that people of all ages can enjoy. By listening to residents and acting on their priorities, we are making meaningful, long-term improvements that will support local businesses and enhance community pride.”