Detailed plans for a new early learning and childcare centre in Carnoustie have been unveiled.
Following consideration of a number of sites, a portion of Pitskelly park has been earmarked for the facility, with a capacity of up to 205 two to five year olds, which is set to be rubber stamped by elected members.
If approved, the centre will be pre-fabricated off-site in order to meet the ambitious completion target of August 2019.
Planners believe the location of the site, within an area of mature trees, is seen as an advantage for the children, as it underlines the emphasis placed on playing outdoors.
The building design is long and low to the ground, which the designers say will create the required open plan interior and maximise the relationship with the park location.
‘Child’ zoned areas of the building will be accessed either by the main, multi-coloured staircase, or an interior chute.
A key part of the environmentally-friendly design is to maximise south facing glazing, while the addition of a canopy will help to reduce the need for heating and cooling measures within the building.
Externally, materials including Sedum, Scottish Larch and zinc have been selected to assist the building settle into its environment, while it will also have a bio-diverse roof to encourage wildlife.
Short stay car parking will be provided in the Angus Council car parking area currently used by Pitskelly Park FC, with different usage times between the two venues allowing the dual use of the parking area.
There is no proposal to employ a crossing person at the site, with planners arguing centre users will be under five years of age, and will be accompanied by adults at all times, although plans for traffic calming measures and an appropriate crossing are in development.
A number of exercise facilities are included in the proposal, including a body weight exercise wall, while a secondary site shows movable exercise equipment in Pitskelly Park which can be used as part of a wider exercise circuit.
The consultation process for the centre, also brought with it a strong defence of the nearby BMX track, which will now be upgraded, including a new surface finish and alterations to jumps will also be carried out in consultation with local users.
The proposals will go before the Development Standards committee.
