This project was undertaken for Glasgow and East Renfrewshire Councils, and answered to a comprehensive steering group of stakeholders, including Scottish Natural Heritage, sportscotland, Forestry Commission, and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport amongst many others.

The aim was to define a clear vision for recreation provision on both land and water and visitor facilities required to transform this run-down area into a successful Country Park.

This was delivered through a review of policy and literature concerning the outdoors, along with health, sports, leisure behaviours and uptake of a number of activities as well as considering planning documents.

Extensive consultation was carried out, including some 60 interviews with stakeholders was also carried out with councillors, relevant council staff, user group representatives and landowners.

A questionnaire designed to gain insights into residents’ views regarding desired activities was also circulated. Some 363 completed surveys were received from the local community.

The final report study established the key range of activities and infrastructure required to make this suburban Country Park a success for the local community as well as for tourists.

The study found that there was overwhelming stakeholder and local community support for the development of Dams to Darnley Country Park to grow leisure and cultural activities within the area.