LOICHGELLY Community Council's January meeting heard of the community garden project which will replace the worn out tennis court area.

The first meeting back after the festive break is usually quiet, however community councillors were provided updates on a number of areas.

In the Public Park, the community garden, planned for the top level tennis court, is on track to be completed for spring this year.

The designs will include installation of a footpath from Johnston Crescent to allow greater access. Discussions had taken place with council officers about options to reduce the gradient of the existing path, however, this wouldn’t have been feasible, members heard.

Plans were also submitted for a new skate park, which will be considered in due course.

The Public Park group will be meeting on January 30, at 6pm in Lodge Minto 385. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Although there were no meetings of the 4 Winds Development Trust, the next meeting is scheduled for February 20.

Community Councillors encouraged local groups to submit applications for grants from the Trust.

Councillors, Mark Hood and Linda Erskine, gave detailed reports of the areas they have been involved in over the last four weeks.

Councillor Erskine highlighted the problems faced by tenants falling into arrears. She has been working with officers to look at ways to help those individuals.

At the January meeting community councillors said their farewells to one of the organisation's longest serving members Rev Jon Magee, who left after almost 20 years, for a new position in the West Midlands.

Recognising his contribution chairperson, Brian Schulz, said: “Jon has been a stalwart within the community for a number of years.

"He has played a vital role in the community council’s discussions and campaigns.

"In addition he has been an active member of the community through his work within the Baptist Church. Everyone should be grateful for the contribution that Jon has made to Lochgelly.”