THERE has been quite a lot said about the plans for a boat club to be established at Lochore Meadows.

It would appear that Benarty Community Council are strongly against the St Andrews University Boat Club’s plans to set up at the club at the Meedies.

But maybe there could be a way for the University Boat Club and the community could come together to put together a scheme which would see everyone benefit.

2018 has been a great year for the country park with the outstanding summer weather ensuring bumper crowds at the Meadows.

Some big events has seen big numbers turn up at the park and in general people have been flocking to the Meedies.

Without doubt the boat club idea would see more and more usage of the park throughout the year and some regatta events would bring even more people to the area.

However, the thing about the boat club idea is also allowing a chance for kids to try their hands at rowing.

At a time when the council and health authorities continue to air their concern about the fitness of youngsters this could be an ideal opportunity to let kids have the chance to try their hands at rowing.

The loch always is an attraction for the kids but few the chance to safely try to get on it.

If the boat club people organise training sessions for youngsters it is possible you could see a lot of local kids getting involved.

The plusses of this could greatly outnumber the concerns of the community council.

So maybe there might be someone who could play the role of bringing the plans together, perhaps park boss Ian Laing.

For me there seems to be so much good that could come from this boat club plan if people sit around a table and talk about what can be achieved.

There is some way to go before any decision on this so with a bit of luck people will think positively about the way ahead.

BOATER,

Park Street,

Crosshill.