Posties Park athletics hub delays causing frustration – The Daily Record
Delays in the completion of the Posties Park athletics hub in Dumbarton are forcing runners away from the sport, especially during the winter months, a local coach and blogger has revealed. Dave Shaw, who operates the Runrhaw blog, highlighted that the lack of floodlit and safe facilities is hindering many runners, particularly women and children, from engaging in activities when the daylight hours decrease. Plans to transform the Levenside venue into a modern athletics track have been in progress since 2015 but have faced multiple setbacks. Initially scheduled to open last March and then postponed to November and later to February, the facility’s launch date continues to be pushed further. The project is currently over £3 million over budget, with estimated costs now reaching £6 million.
Dave Shaw expressed his frustration, stating that runners are eager to access the facility and that the delays are impacting training schedules, especially for female athletes who feel unsafe running in the early mornings or evenings. He emphasised that the unavailability of the hub is particularly disappointing for youngsters who lack a quality training venue nearby. Despite the delays, some runners have resorted to climbing over the fence to use the track, although encounters with others already on the track have led to unpleasant confrontations. The council is still awaiting a completion certificate, with no official opening date set.
As the local community eagerly awaits the completion of the Posties Park athletics hub, concerns over the impact of delays on athletes, especially women and children, continue to grow. The frustration felt by Dave Shaw and other runners highlights the urgent need for safe and accessible sports facilities to support the physical well-being of the community. While the picturesque location remains unused, the unresolved situation calls for prompt action to ensure that individuals of all ages have the opportunity to engage in athletics without facing unnecessary challenges or limitations.