Draft Mugdock Strategy

Mugdock Country Park is a major community asset in the Green Network of East Dunbartonshire & Stirling.

The facility extends over 260ha of environmental greenspace asset including the SSSI site with a range of attractions and supporting facilities. The lands were gifted in 1982 by Sir Hugh Fraser for the ‘sole purpose of providing a country park for the recreation and pleasure of the general public’

Visitor numbers to Mugdock Country Park and the adjacent area were at an unprecedented level during 2020 highlighting existing vehicular and pedestrian pressures on the landscape and its neighbouring road infrastructure. The Country Park comprises a number of key parts:

• The Stables Visitor Centre & associated facilities
• Mugdock Castle
• Craigend Castle
• Mugdock Wood / SSSI
• Walled Garden
• WWII Gunsites.

The aspiration for Mugdock Country Park’s future is that all these constituent parts work together and with their adjoining communities to increase the overall visitor offer. East Dunbartonshire and Stirling Council‘s are planning investment in the management and maintenance of Mugdock over the next five years to ensure a high quality, accessible and sensitively developed destination of choice for our residents and visitors.

East Dunbartonshire and Stirling Councils are seeking to ensure the park remains fit for purpose and delivers the widest possible benefits for its communities and stakeholders and has commissioned this study to develop a clear strategy and investment led masterplan to regenerate and direct future investment in the Country Park.

The Masterplan

This masterplan has been shaped around a clear understanding of the asset and how the asset can support the delivery of national, regional and local policy goals and address the needs of its communities and users. Management and maintenance and the operational values of the park are as important as design elements with the need to:

• Develop Mugdock as a destination of choice.
• Develop the quality of the attractions within the destination.
• Develop an inclusive centre with the broadest range of appeal.
• Develop stronger connections and links across the Green Network/Communities.
• Develop the connections with national/regional /local policy initiatives.
• Develop the values and profile of the Country Park as a leading institution/asset.

Mugdock needs to transform itself from the 1970’s concept of a designated location for near countryside activity to a modern 21st century Country Park addressing the needs of communities today and having a role and contribution to the key challenges of our time:

• Health & Well Being
• Active Communities
• Free Recreational Access – Inclusion/Exclusion resulting from Poverty
• Biodiversity
• Education
• Green / Blue-Green Networks – connected places
• Climate Change
• Place Quality / Valued Places
• Empowered Communities.

East Dunbartonshire is an attractive place to live, work and visit. Its built and natural environment improves the quality of lives, supports wellbeing and safe active travel, enables sustainable economic growth, improves connectivity and allows nature to flourish.

Stirling Council’s Alive with Nature Plan 2021-2045 sets a clear vision that places nature at the heart of life - here and now. It aims to transform the Stirling area into Scotland’s greenest region, where our thriving natural environment is enjoyed and valued by everyone.

As part of both Council's identified Strategic Green Networks significant opportunities are highlighted for Mugdock to offer more.

What Does it Need to Be?

• An appealing, safe and attractive place to enjoy the natural environment
• A quality experience connecting with the natural world.
• An exemplary habitat and natural heritage habitats
• Fun and an opportunity to participate / experience / acquire knowledge, understand the natural world
• A unique and special place.

What Do We Need to Deliver?

• Investment in the park to strengthen its appeal
• An attractive, safe and inclusive environment to enjoy
• Sharing of sound environmental values and communication of the importance of conservation particularly within the SSSI
• Partnership working with others to deliver services of quality
• Strong outcomes for communities.

Wider Country Park Support

Vital to the development of a Vision for Mugdock Country Park is the continued support of organisations such as the Mugdock Trust, Clan Graham and the Astronomical Society of Glasgow.

Over and above these key stakeholder groups inputs from conservation volunteers, garden volunteers and Mugdock Castle volunteers are essential to both the current and future success of Mugdock.

Mugdock’s key strengths and assets need to be re-assessed to shape a future strategy / masterplan.

Experience tells us that Country Parks to be successful need to offer:

• Multifunctional activity and appeal, based on quality experiences – maximum enjoyment for the widest possible audience
• Engagement with the natural environment
• Freedom to roam in a safe environment
• Connections to wider greenspace network & surrounding communities
• Destination offer – e.g. reasons to visit.

Core Strengths

Mugdock Country Park’s key strengths are assessed and confirmed through consultation as:

• Natural environment assets.
• Woodland assets and wildlife.
• Activities (play / walking environment)
• Scenic value
• Services eg garden centre/ café etc
• Historic environment
• Ecological value - SSSI Mugdock wood.

Core Weaknesses

Mugdock Country Park’s key weaknesses are assessed and confirmed through consultation as:

• Public transport connectivity
• Lack of investment
• Path network
• Level of activity / facility
• Location & accessibility
• Legibility-brand-profile
• Restricted appeal
• Notable quality.

In looking at and comparing other central belt Country Parks, Mugdock currently has few distinguishing elements or specific attractions and facilities to offer anything other than a country park with local appeal.

View Appendix 2 which provides more detail.

1. Developing a clear strategic direction for Mugdock is critical.
2. Building on strengths and addressing weaknesses suggests the strategy is to focus on.
3. Need to build meaningful experiences out of existing assets through education and interpretation – connecting/ linking visitors with the assets.
4. Build and enhance distinctive offer through activities and facilities that together develop the offer.
5. Protection and enhancement of the SSSI to maintain site value.
6. Address the locational challenge with stronger connection to Milngavie with a revised entrance/ entry to the park and sustainable travel opportunities.
7. Reinvestment is an essential requirement to develop the quality / protect a regional asset of distinctive appeal.
8. Inclusive barrier-free use on suitably defined trails / path networks.
9. Need a clear Business Case based on developing the future viability of the destination.

Objectives

Mugdock is an established and well loved Country Park. However the consensus of public view is it needs investment and clear focus if it is to succeed and remain popular.

Country Park Objectives:

1. Invest to deliver a high quality, accessible and sensitively developed destination of choice for residents and visitors.
2. Create a quality / distinctive Country Park destination with strong visitor appeal based on core environmental and historic assets and user facilities. Building and enhancing distinctive offer through activities and facilities, that support a wide range of activity.
3. Develop ‘best in class’ facilities that are comparable with current best attractions in Scotland (public or private).
4. Sustain user numbers but aim to maximise dwell time and spend to sustain facilities & operations.
5. Address specific East Dunbartonshire and Stirling Council objectives including:

• Encouraging Health and Wellbeing through a range of social, cultural & leisure activities.
• Transforming the natural environment to support wellbeing, inward investment and enhancements for future generations.

Initial concept ideas were developed to explore opportunities, test viability and provide opportunity for stakeholders and public input and responses.

• Reinforce Heritage elements - building upon existing core facilities to enhance setting and maximise place value and impact
• Enhance facilities & activities - to better support events use and generate increased income
• Improve legibility - through rationalisation of entrance and connections to key routes
• Improve biodiversity - through developing projects across the Park - aiming to maximise the benefits to the natural asset
• Secure Investment - to deliver improved quality of facility and service throughout
• Introduce at least ONE new attraction or facility - to add to and strengthen the visitor offer
• Provide full access - for all user groups, to ensure no one is excluded wherever possible
• Build meaningful experience - through more and improved Education and Interpretation.

A review highlighted six potential options, each describing a core function and activity that sets the Park’s profile.

• Option 1: Do Nothing
  Manage the park as existing with only minor changes to current vision and operating plan based on woodland management and non-intensive Country Park activity.
   
• Option 2: Mugdock Heritage
  Develop the history and heritage of the Park creating first class facilities and develop a range of tourism options.
   
• Option 3: Mugdock Eco-Park
  Manage the park as an Eco-Park focused on education/ interpretation/ natural environments and as a unique natural environmental resource.
   
• Option 4: Mugdock Edu-Park
  Manage the park as a centre for Outward Bound / Scouting/ Duke of Edinburgh training focused on education, schools, skills, bush-craft, and as a centre of excellence.
   
• Option 5 : Mugdock Play
  Develop the concept of play as a multi-themed element running through the whole Park (adult/ young people/children) so all park elements embrace inter-active ‘play’ connecting interpretation, traditional, adventure and experience play.
   
• Option 6: Mugdock Active Leisure
  Manage the park for a suite of active leisure activity including Play / Orienteering / Fitness Training / Zip-wire/ GoApe etc.
  These initial options were taken through the consultation process with clear guidance provided by the community.

Engagement has been central to developing this masterplan. The Client team, Park Stakeholders (East Dunbartonshire Council/ Stirling Council and wider interests) and the local community have shaped and informed our approach and outcomes.

Given that the Strategy development took place during the Covid 19 pandemic large scale, in-person consultation events were seen as inadvisable therefore four key activities have been undertaken to capture views and encourage participation:

• Visitor Survey
  Online questionnaire
• 3NO Stakeholder Workshops
  Supported by follow up online questionnaire.

Over 1800 views have been captured through the above engagement process.

• 1800+ responses to online questionnaire
• 200+ face-to-face discussions with participants by Mugdock staff.

The high response to the questionnaire stands testament to the high value and passionate regard with which Mugdock Country Park is held within the local community.

Comments raised addressed the following key topics:

Connectivity - was a high priority for most survey respondents with the need to improve sustainable access and connections to adjoining communities, outdoor resources like the Reservoirs and Milngavie Town Centre specifically noted. 59% of questionnaire responses sought improvements to public transport connections, currently the majority of visitors (85%) arrive by car.

Operation & Management - need for investment widely recognised (44%) with concerns raised at lack of quality infrastructure and need for improvement to paths in particular (32%).

Conservation & Sustainability - the Natural Environment and Woodland/ Wildlife were the highest scoring strengths noted at Mugdock with 86% and 67% respectively. This highlights that consolidating and protecting these natural resources whilst maximising its role in nature conservation and associated education is fundamental in taking any strategy for Mugdock Country Park forward. Also noted in the top six were Scenic Value and Ecological Value.

Activities - were highlighted as the third highest park strength, as noted in initial Park assessments (Appendix 2) both the Ranger and Visitor Centre Staff engage continuously with an intense and well received programme of activities for a wide variety of interest groups.

Historic Environment - 34% of survey responses noted the Country Park’s history as a key strength. Key buildings and structures within its boundaries provide a reference to its past and were seen as a a unique selling point.

• Major issues of concern - the concept of adding a big attraction to Mugdock was seen as undesirable, visitors love the essence of Mugdock and do not want this to be lost
   
• Development Options - through the online workshops no one theme came out clearly as favourite, agreement was that a combination of approaches.
  
  (Heritage/Eco Park/Play/Active Leisure) would provide the best balance and would appeal to the widest range of visitors. The Stakeholder on-line survey identified Heritage and Eco-Park as the preferred options with 42% supporting these.

More detail on responses can be found in the Appendices.

Invitations to workshops included:

• Councillors
• Community members eg Milngavie Community Council, Strathblanefield Community Council
• Council officials and staff from both East Dunbartonshire Council & Stirling Council
• Mugdock Trust
• Audit Scotland
• Mugdock Staff
• Mugdock Traders
• Other interested organisations eg Milngavie In Bloom, Scottish Water, Caledonia Water Alliance, NatureScot, HES, Friends of Mugdock Reservoir, Strathblane Community Development Trust, Police Scotland, Landowners.

Main outcomes were:

• Need to better connect the Country Park with surrounding areas sustainably
• Protect important natural assets - both wildlife and landscape
• Provide improved accessibility and infrastructure
• Encourage continued and increased activities based around the Country Park’s existing strengths
• Maximise the benefits of existing Heritage Assets... tell the story of Mugdock!

Mugdock is an important community asset and can play a key role in meeting the needs of the community and delivering health & well-being benefits alongside providing access to safe play and countryside facilities.

Major recommended actions/ investments give focus to building quality, distinctiveness and appeal including:

• Visitor Welcome & Orientation - consolidating Stables Café, Toilets, Visitor Centre/ Play Area Garden Centre to improve quality of experience. Introduce new covered area to improve visitor facilities
• Heritage Focus - invest in increased interpretation and improved directional signage to increase visitor awareness of offer
• Connectivity - improve directional signage anddevelop e-bike links with Town Centre/ Station and explore potential for seasonal bus connections to reduce car travel to Mugdock
• Protect the SSSI - combine education with protection through better visitor information and emphasis on importance of national status
• Biodiversity - extend biodiversity offer to include areas where local schools can easily be involved and use tangible biodiversity as a stepping stone to fuller understanding
• Trails, Routes & Signage - develop clear routes for promotion to general public linked with Interpretive Strategy and all ability network
• Promoting private sector investment & potential franchise operations - for Café /Retail development of existing & new partnerships with charities, sports clubs, voluntary groups and environmental bodies.

The Vision

The Mugdock Country Park Strategy 2022-2027 aims to:

• Recognise and celebrate the heritage of Mugdock
• Build capacity to best utilise our outstanding natural assets
• Improve access and facilities for all
• Create new opportunities for our local community and visitors to enjoy and connect with Mugdock Country Park
• Create a sustainable and welcoming place for all.

• Punctuate Entrance
  Establish a clear arrival at Mugdock with bold/ large scale entrance signage combining existing entrance walling with new timber and metal elements to clearly reinforce the website brand and reduce confusion with Garden Centre arrival
• Car Parking / Bus Drop Off
  Rationalise existing car parking to better orientate visitors and direct all to clear Stables Arrival entrance. Relocate disabled parking to closer location and establish suite of signage to support clarity/ relocate main Orientation point
• Existing Visitor Centre
  Has already been relocated to more prominent position in Stables Courtyard
• Create E-Bike / EV Hub
  Supporting wider concept of sustainable connectivity introduce E-bike and EV charging point hub within Stables car park
• Stables Seating Area
  Creating a spill out seating area in the south facing area which benefits from views and aspect. Using existing site levels to establish stepped informal seating and planting to improve setting and perception of the historic building
• New Covered BBQ/Seating Area
  Taking on board consultation feedback create a covered area which can be used day-to-day but also as a hired facility maximising benefits for local people and responding to needs of larger organised groups
• Extended Play Offer
  Contemporary Play, providing distinctive & themed play opportunities, which are ‘bigger, better, taller, larger…’ promoting a unique multigenerational play facility of distinction that works alongside existing adventure play.
  - Located directly adjacent to the visitor hub
  - Fully accessible and highly visible
  - Maximising appeal/ dwell time /experience/ choice and diversity
  - Themed around wildlife & woodland
  - Creating a natural play transition to the wider Country Park.
• Walled Garden
  Strengthening the historic connections on site by directly linking the Stables and Walled Garden. Remove the current access completely to ensure visitors first experience view to the bandstand and of the Garden itself before retail opportunities. Create backdrop within the Garden through introduction of Pleached trees providing a partial screen. The character of this space is key to future success as a location for Events eg weddings to be held within East Dunbartonshire Council hireable marquee. Access required for vehicular delivery of supporting facilities. Screening of rear yard from Garden Centre car park is important to improve overall perceptions of area quality
• Memorial Wall Seat
  Opportunity identified when resolving levels adjacent to ramped access to create a Memorial Wall with associated seating. Considerable interest has been noted for memorial elements within Mugdock; a feature wall with Artist made birds or flowers in keeping with the overall themes of nature is recommended.

• Improvements to surroundings of Stables to emphasise quality and maximise location opening up views to Pond and beyond wherever possible. As described in preceding section
• Connect to Walled Garden south entrance to avoid visitors accessing through plant sales area of Garden Centre and establishing clear setting, as described in preceding section
• Craigend Castle (LOCATION C) focus accessible biodiversity and Zoo related sculptures and surfacing inlays to link with unique site heritage
• WWII Gunsites (LOCATION D) create raised footway platform/ viewpoint to allow elevated position and improved awareness of site's presence with associated viewpoint signage. Explore opportunities to reintroduce gun element to ease awareness of scale and site prominence
• Mugdock Castle (LOCATION E) work closely with Mugdock Trust to improve the visitor experience and develop proposal for lower terrace with potential maze laid out in surfacing & reference to Clan Graham through computer animated design.

Protect the SSSI

• Establish a Path Hierarchy focusing signage on key most accessible routes and supporting Ranger Service in ongoing works to minimise disturbance of valuable natural resources.
• Increase awareness of SSSI location (LOCATION F) and sensitivities through gateway signage located at all key entrance points to the SSSI, signage to welcome visitors whilst identifying the site sensitivities and need to stay on paths/ keep dogs under close control
• Bracken encroachment seek external funding to tackle extensive encroachment within the SSSI which is suppressing other species and eroding the existing quality
• Re-evaluate deer issues following NatureScot spring survey to identify ideal numbers for future culling to minimise grazing of areas and degradation of the SSSI
• Tackle path braiding through increased public information notices and temporary fencing erected by Country Park Rangers
• Woodland Management following initial survey works to identify clear management approach regarding where restocking or felling is desirable for the SSSI, close working with NatureScot is required
• Beetle assemblage surveys to establish clear current status and update records allowing future actions to be identified
• Develop updated Land Management Plan utilising plans digitised through the current Strategy process and forming a baseline for future works.

• Craigend Quarry (LOCATION G) introduce floating planted islands with school involvement for planting and awareness raising Extensive areas required to limit opportunities for tomb stoning. Scope to further explore boardwalks and access within the area following water and cliff surveys for safety
• Craigend Quarry (LOCATION G) establish bird hide/ viewing areas allowing focus on wildlife and tranquil setting
• Craigend Castle (LOCATION C) create wildflower meadows and potentially bee hives within boundary of ruins enabling accessible biodiversity as a stepping stone to education about more complex Mugdock site ecology.

Trails, routes and signage

• Establish a suite of signs for Trails through remounting of existing quality interpretive signage within timber structures to provide consistency –clear message and clarity of style alongside timber fingerposts and in keeping with character of Country Park
• Introduce brass rubbing elements on key waymarkers to add interest for children and encourage exploration and understanding of wildlife/ insects which can be found on site
• Establish Path hierarchy in line with wider Country Park Ranger service routes providing easily accessible for all primary promoted routes and clearly identified trails for those who are keen to explore wilder areas
• Create seating areas at key locations, easing accessibility with rest or perch points at 50m spacings along primary routes.

Connectivity

• Establish Clarity on all Arrival Routes through signage strategy to address both road and pedestrian routes to the Country Park. White on Brown Road signage and standardised pedestrian fingerposts to be provided
• Milngavie Town Centre BID establish strong links to Town Centre and explore opportunities for connected activities. E-bike connections from the Railway Station and scope to develop clear connections from the West Highland Way. Maximise overall benefits in proximity. Explore opportunity for seasonal Low Emission Bus connections to limit existing car parking pressures.

Commercial activity/ facilities

• Car Parking charges identified to support the need to reduce car travel to the Country Park and in line with wider Climate change policy
• Children’s Trail building upon existing seasonal events success with a high quality permanent installation
• Light Show Experience maximising Mugdock as a venue for activity and run by a private operator
• Outdoor Nursery Support Space utilising existing rooms to encourage education further within the Country Park
• Filming Location with added support space marketed as a longer term opportunity
• Theatre Events building on existing investment and a unique selling point
• Chainsaw training exploring opportunities through East Dunbartonshire Council provider as part of wider Tree Management
• Wellbeing Tranquillity Hub initially as part of an annual event
• Venue hire at Walled Garden for weddings using East Dunbartonshire Council marquee
• Unleashed Dog fields as scope to use underutilised fields without compromising nature value
• Memorial plaques & benches enabling a strategic approach which can support the community
• Friends of Mugdock scheme relaunch
• Craigend Quarry Outdoor Recreation opportunities and feasibility study.

Delivery of the Masterplan requires progressive testing and development of key elements to build clarity around project components, build support, identify project partners, establish certainty of cost and identify appropriate operating mechanisms.

East Dunbartonshire Council (EDC)

Stirling Council (SC)

Key actions include:

Approvals - progression of process to secure full EDC/ SC support and funding commitments to move project development forward.

Feasibility Studies developed with stakeholders & key EDC/ SC departments to test, develop and progress key project elements.

Detailed Business Plans - supporting project feasibility including market testing to prove viability, capital and revenue funding/ identify commercial partners.

Design Development - progressing design proposals for key elements to RIBA.

Stage 3

Delivery Plan - developed for implementation , identifying delivery partners, funding mechanisms and timescales for project delivery.

Project implementation - delivering projects in a prioritised sequence giving focus to achieving impact and meaningful change.

Early Action Projects - Visitor Welcome & Orientation

Project - Entrance signage

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Establish high impact entrance signage of scale in timber providing clarity of site brand aligned with online content

Project - Rationalise Stables car park & upgrades to Khyber & East Car Parks

Location - A

Task - Full Topographic Survey & Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Establish clarity of arrival and logical parking circulation focusing on Stables Visitor Centre.Upgrade surfacings

Project - Welcome signage

Location - B

Task - Signage & interpretation strategy

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Establish clear arrival points to provide visitor welcome and orientation at all key arrival points car parks including pedestrian. Provide considered message about what the site offers with Heritage and Natural Environment focus to encourage exploration

Project - Courtyard and arrival area upgrades

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Ensure accessibility and focus of courtyard through surfacing, signage and potential toilet upgrades. Reinstall the sundial clock and carved steps to improve arrival.

Project - Road signage

Location - NA

Task - Implementation

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Introduce white on brown Visitor Road signage to provide clarity on all surrounding key routes. Focus on Stable Car Park.

Project - Directional signage

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Signage strategy

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Concentrate signage within arrival area to provide visitor confidence that routes will be clearly signed

Project - Interpretation (Site Wide)

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Interpretive strategy

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Establish clear themes and opportunities for whole site to establish clear visitor message and encourage wider exploration and multigenerational understanding through both signage and sculptural elements.

Early Action Projects - Focused on strengthening existing park assets

Project - Create plaza to front of Stables

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Establish seating area and setting for Stables, focus on views out and scale of space to improve pedestrian comfort and accessibility

Project - Connect Stables to Walled Garden South Entrance

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/ SC

Description - Introduce direct link to south entrance of Walled Garden removing circuitous route to north end completely and establishing level access to ensure visitors arrive to garden not shop.

Project - Introduce Zoo related sculptures and surfacing inlays around Craigend Castle

Location - C

Task - Interpretive Strategy

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Encourage increased use of the area and added interest for children and visitors through links to site heritage. Maximise site benefit of unique history, exploring aspects of the original zoo. Size of lions paw in slab, height of elephant, list of animals and their names.

Project - WWII Gunsites

Location - D

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Create raised platform via 1:21 slopes up to a new viewing area establishing a raised platform to facilitate views over Gunsites to increase awareness but also establish connections to wider views which were the reason for the emplacements.Supported by new interpretive signage as part of the handrail. Fencing and path upgrades within gunsite itself to improve access. Explore opportunity for sculptural Big Gun to add scale and drama.

Project - Mugdock Castle

Location - E

Task - Outline Design & Artist Brief

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC/Mugdock Trust

Description - Work with Mugdock Trust to improve the visitor experience and interpretation at Mugdock Castle and develop proposal for lower terrace to create a maze or labyrinth and incorporate sculptural elements referencing Clan Graham. Scope for Clan timeline with- in path routes to add value. Replace boardwalks and in Castle furniture as necessary.

Early Action Projects - Securing the Natural Environment for the Future

Project - SSSI Gateway signage

Location - F

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers

Description - Establish signage at boundaries of SSSI within path network to convey positive message and increase awareness of site sensitivity

Project - Establish path hierarchy

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers

Description - Work closely with rangers to establish key path routes for promotion/ signage

Project - Bracken Encroachment

Location - NA

Task - Implementation

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Phased removal of extensive areas of bracken encroachment being undertaken by external contractor over five year period

Project - Re-evaluate Deer issues

Location - NA

Task - Evaluation

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Review approach to Deer culling following NatureScot survey

Project - Path braiding

Location - NA

Task - On site works

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Tackle path braiding with signage and physical measures

Project - Woodland management

Location - NA

Task - On site works

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Following survey develop next layer of Woodland Management proposals

Project - Beetle assemblage surveys

Location - NA

Task - Survey

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Establish clarity of baseline status to inform future management

Project - Landscape Management Plan

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Strategy

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Create plan update to inform management and protect/ enhance the SSSI status

Early Action Projects - Creating Wider Benefit

Project - Create wildflower meadows around Craigend Castle

Location - C

Task - Outline Design

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Mixed wildflowers, bee hotels and potentially hives within the Castle compound

Project - Floating planted islands at Craigend Quarry

Location - G

Task - Feasibility Study

Priority - LOW

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Planting of islands involving schools groups and establishing new habitats, explore opportunities for boardwalks and/or pontoons

Project - Introduce bird hides and viewing areas near Craigend Quarry

Location - G

Task - Outline Design

Priority - LOW

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers/NatureScot

Description - Using visually permeable materials establish clear areas for nature focus

Project - Improve connections from Milngavie and Strathblane

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Transport Strategy

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Milngavie BID

Description - Scope for E bikes from Milngavie station/Town Centre. Explore opportunity to reintroduce Bus service at weekends.

Project - Improve links to wider Green Network & Town Centre

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Signage Strategy

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Milngavie BID

Description - Connect with Town Centre, WHW, Reservoirs, Allander Water and explore opportunities. Works to include White on brown VisitorRoad signage on surrounding road network.

Project - Establish a suite of signs

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Signage Strategy

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC/Rangers

Description - Build on existing quality elements to improve consistency and continuity of message

Early Action Projects - Income Generation/ Facilities

Project - Extend Play Area into Natural Play Area

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Replace equipment and extend area into Natural Play area to establish play facilities within woodland setting. Key elements will allow imaginative play and improve accessibility of surfacing and multi-generation

Project - Covered Seating

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Introduce covered seating area to enable year round use with potential for hire and additional BBQ

Project - Woodland Sculpture Trail

Location - NA

Task - Outline Design

Priority - LOW

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Add value and interest to woodland experience through introduction of large scale woodland sculpture elements working with local artists

Project - Unleashed dog fields

Location - C

Task - Feasibility Study

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Introduce new facility to encourage dog users to maximise experience at Mugdock within designated areas

Project - Unleashed dog fields

Location - C

Task - Feasibility Study

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Introduce new facility to encourage dog users to maximise experience at Mugdock within designated areas

Project - Venue Hire at Walled Garden

Location - A

Task - Detailed design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Marquee use for events within Walled Garden requires separate power connection, lighting and location / access for portaloos

Project - Additional BBQ site & upgrades to existing

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Introduce larger BBQ site for hire with associated covered area. Upgrades to existing successful BBQ sites

Project - Memorial plaques

Location - A

Task - Artist's brief

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Scope with wall with seating overlooking key view. Artist competition to create a bird which can be commissioned to create impact and mounted as birds on a wall

Project - Memorial benches

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Establish preferred bench

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Establish a seat for use throughout park, consistency of approach to site furniture

Project - Wellbeing Tranquillity Hub

Location - A

Task - Events Programming

Priority - LOW

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Viable once site quality is established. Current use of Campsie Room as part of a Wellness Week to be continued

Project - Chainsaw Training

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Feasibility study & Surveys 

Priority - LOW

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - As part of wider Tree Management explore opportunities to provide chainsaw training via existing EDC provider

Project - Children's Trail

Location - NA

Task - Design brief

Priority - LOW 

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Permanent feature

Project - Car parking charges

Location - A

Task - Review

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Concern re potential impact on Craigallan Road and issues with Caulders Garden Centre

Project - Annual Craft Market

Location - A

Task - Events Programming

Priority - LOW

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Potential conflict with Milngavie?

Project - Light show experience

Location - NA

Task - Events Programming

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - 2/3 wk run in December private operator

Project - Outdoor Nursery Support space

Location - A

Task - Review

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Previously discussed as EDC facility however could be a Private operator if this does not come into being

Project - Filming Location

Location - SITE WIDE

Task - Events Programming

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Market with support space of Campsie Room to gain additional benefit

Project - Theatre Events

Location - A

Task - Events Programming

Priority - MEDIUM

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Maximise benefit of newly refurbished facility

Project - Friends of Mugdock Country Park

Location - NA

Task - Review

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Relaunch existing scheme

Project - Craigend Quarry Outdoor Recreation

Location - G

Task - Feasibility study & surveys

Priority - LOW

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Explore opportunities and establish safety requirements for outdoor pursuits located at the quarry. Options may include fishing, water pursuits, zip wire.

Project - Waste Water Treatment Tank Replacement

Location - NA

Task - Implementation

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Functional requirement which will minimise ongoing maintenance costs.

Project - Craigend Quarry Fencing

Location - G

Task - Implementation

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Essential works to minimise safety risks and concern regarding anti social behaviours.

Project - Yard Improvements

Location - A

Task - Outline Design

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Works to improve quality, rationalise and screen the existing yard from the car park improving perception of arrival quality.

Project - ICT Improvements

Location - A

Task - Implementation

Priority - HIGH

Partners - EDC/SC

Description - Community Broadband Scheme establishing high speed connection for the Country Park and increasing potential for multi media use associated with development projects

Project - Introduce a charge for car parking

Current set-up

Parking is currently free across the Country Park, with 85% of Mug- dock’s 800,000 annual visitors arriving by car. The introduction of car parking charges has been discussed for some time. Existing donation posts within the car park bring in c. £2,000 a year.

Income Potential and Other Benefits

Presents high income potential, which could be used to support ongoing revenue costs for the Country Park and a capital investment programme. Commonly used across other similar sites, including by Forestry & Land Scotland and the NTS, and recently introduced at Pollok Country Park (£2.50/4 hrs).
Based on the total footfall, there are in excess of 200,000 trips by car to Mugdock each year. Even setting a low parking fee of £1.50 (all day) and accounting for different variables would generate substantial gross income of £250,000-£350,000 per year. The working for this is set out below. The VAT position would need clarified although guidance from HMRC indicates it could be made exempt.
A complementary ‘Friends of Mugdock’ membership scheme – offering free parking – would generate further income (see below).
The introduction of parking charges will help manage the number of cars on peak visiting days and incentivise sustainable travel choices.
In the absence of any firm monitoring/enforcement, the scheme would depend on a degree of goodwill (emphasising the importance of communicating how this supports the park, and tying in with the Friends of Mugdock scheme).

Risks

As parking has always been free at Mugdock, the introduction of charges may initially be controversial with regular park users - the scheme will need to be carefully framed as vital to support the long-term sustainability of the park and go alongside visible improvements to infrastructure. An annual membership scheme would offer free parking (an accepted model elsewhere e.g. National Trusts).
It may exacerbate anti-social parking issues on nearby rural roads, requiring assistance from Police Scotland and local authority parking wardens to manage.
There no scheduled public transport connections to MCP - introduction of parking charges would need to be considered alongside improved active travel options, particularly from Milngavie and Bearsden.
Any impact on footfall/spend for Mugdock’s independent traders would also need to be monitored.

Timeline & Required Investment

2023-24 - investment would be required to bring all car parks up to standard and to install barriers (pay by card or scan membership card on exit) and/or payment machines.
To tie to one car, visitors could have a barcode (physical or on their mobile) that allows a free ticket to be printed at a machine, including the reg. plate. This model is now used by the NT, replacing window stickers (stickers are a cheaper alternative, but need replaced each year).

Project - Screen productions

Current set-up

The Country Park has been used extensively over recent years for a variety of screen productions of different scales and budgets, including films, TV programmes, and adverts. In 2020-21, location and facility hire fees were around £10,000.

Income Potential and Other Benefits

The aim should be to retain this at the current level and grow where possible, particularly given the strong performance of the screen sector in Scotland over the last few years. Being able to provide an indoor space for productions to base themselves – as is now the case with the Campsie Room - will improve the attractiveness of the Country Park as a location. The Country Park will continue to actively promote itself through Screen Scotland’s Locations Network.

Risks

There is a need to ensure that screen productions do not come into conflict with other uses and public access to the Country Park – this should be managed on a case-by-case basis.

Timeline & Required Investment

Ongoing – no specific investment required.

Project - Friends of Mugdock scheme

Current set-up

A Friends of Mugdock scheme was revived in 2015, with an annual membership cost of £15 for individuals and £25 for a family. However, it was not widely promoted and then paused.

Income potential and other benefits

Annual membership fees could be raised from the previous set-up, particularly if free parking was included – this would be the key incentive to join. If around half of regular (weekly) visitors join and lower proportions of monthly/less frequent visitors, this would amount to around 6,000 members and £150,000 gross income, based on £19.99 individual membership and £29.99 family membership. The working for this is set out below.
Members could also be entitled to other benefits, such as a 10% discount in the shop and a discounted ‘members rate’ for barbecue hire and ranger activities.

Risks

The Friends scheme itself is relatively risk free although it will be important to continue to emphasise that the Country Park remains free and open to all.

Timeline & required investment

Initial marketing costs and ongoing administration costs, particularly if a large membership was achieved. Can happen immediately but will be given impetus by the introduction of parking charges – this would also require members being given some way of operating barriers/payment machines.

Project - Dog Field

Current set-up

Mugdock is popular with dog walkers and dogs are permitted in most areas of the country park. However, there is no dedicated, secure area where dogs can be allowed off the lead.

Income potential and other benefits

A secure dog walking field where dogs can be allowed off the lead. Similar facilities work on the basis of exclusive hire – with online slots available and PIN coded gate entry, charging from £6.50/30 mins to £15 for 50 mins (for e.g. up to four dogs). This would be an effective way of generating income from land within the Country Park with minimal running costs. Agility equipment can add to the appeal of the site. Four 45 min bookings a day @ £7, averaged out over a whole year, would bring in gross income of around £10,000/year.

Risks

The market may be becoming saturated – there are now a considerable number of these facilities across central Scotland. Nonetheless, a pilot could be justified. It would also take away some land from other users – although the space requirement would not be vast.

Timeline required & investment

Once a site has been identified, this could proceed relatively quickly. Fencing costs approx. £90K for 1.8m high deer fencing or alternatively adding mesh to existing 1.2m high fencing approx. £40K.

Project - Weddings and private events

Current set-up

There has been no real effort to push the country park as a destination for weddings or similar private events (although this is mentioned on the website and there are frequent requests). The walled garden would provide a suitable location for events, and has undergone recent improvements with new steps/ paths, and a freshly painted bandstand. A marquee is also available for hire.

Income potential and other benefits

There are approx. 200 to 250 weddings in East Dunbartonshire each year. This is lower than council areas with a similar population, indicating that people are looking further afield for venues.
Wedding venues typically start from £1,000 for site-only, full-day hire, and lower amounts for ceremony-only. A range of venues and pricing info within Glasgow and the surrounding area are listed on Bridebook. Those booking the site for wedding events would need to hire their own toilet facilities (depending on the number of guests) and catering.

Risks

Weddings would require exclusive use of the walled garden, limiting access to other users. There would also need to be time for assembly and disassembly of the marquee. Wedding parties would also require parking to be put aside for them, placing additional pressure on the car park. Coaches would need space for turning.

Timeline required & investment

Dedicated electricity supply for the garden and necessary health and safety requirements (e.g. emergency exit signs). Wedding parties may need to reserve and pay for an exclusive area of the car park.

Project - Memorial walls.

Current set-up

There is no clear strategy for memorial plaques or benches in the park. Memorial trees can be planted if requested. Many other parks/local authorities charge a set fee for standardised benches.

Income potential and other benefits

Use a wall between the end of the stable block and walled garden to create a memorial wall with nature-inspired, decorative cast metal structures installed – forming an attractive art work and an opportunity for the public to purchase a permanent memorial to a relative or loved one. Similar walls within other gardens typically charge £200 to £250 for a basic plaque.

Risks

This is relatively risk free – memorial walls/ benches are common across gardens and parks and it is generally accepted that a charge goes alongside this.

Timeline and required investment

Agree design of plaques and arrange who will install and maintain them.

Project - Additional barbecue site

Current set-up

The Park has three BBQ sites that can be booked in advance, at £40 for <30 people & £50 for >30 people for the outdoor sites and £80 for four hours for the BBQ Hut. These have proved very popular, particularly on weekends during the summer. Disposable or portable BBQs are not allowed anywhere within the park.

Income potential and other benefits

An additional site would help to meet the proven demand for barbecue hires within the park.

Risks

The existing barbecue sites work well – an additional site would not present any additional risk.

Timeline and required investment

Ready for summer 2023.

Project - Ranger activities

Current set-up

The rangers in the country park run a programme of events and activities through- out the year. Charges are generally £12 for 3 hour events, £8 for 2 hours and £5 for 1 hour. Cheaper rates are available for school/youth groups.

Income potential and other benefits

The current programme of events and activities is successful and engages a large number of people of all ages each year. Nonetheless, there are felt opportunities to further develop this offer – helping to meet demand for outdoor and nature-based learning and activities.

Risks

Minimal risk – builds on existing activity.

Timeline and required investment

Ongoing.

Project - Wellbeing events

Current set-up

The park has hosted different health/ wellbeing classes, with different spaces hired by practitioners.

Income potential and other benefits

The park has spaces that can be hired for a range of health/wellbeing activities, including the refurbished bandstand and the Campsie Room (which can also be used as a base for film/TV productions, birthday parties, meetings, events, etc). This could be developed into a more coherent programme, in coordination with individual practitioners offering pilates, forest mindfulness, yoga, etc. A themed ‘wellbeing week’ could be organised to give this activity a focus. The main income generated would be through room hire.

Risks

Minimal risk – builds on existing activity.

Timeline and required investment

Ongoing.

Project - Craft fayre

Current set-up

There is an aspiration to run an annual makers/craft fayre, which does not currently happen at the park. This could make use of the park’s marquee.

Income potential and other benefits

The event would attract people to the park. Stallholders would be charged a set fee for a pitch. By way of comparison, the monthly Milngavie market, held every third Friday, charges £45/pitch and £70/hot food trader.

Risks

There is a monthly farmers/makers markets in Milngavie town centre – the Mugdock event should be careful not to directly compete/displace activity from this. Therefore, this is proposed as an annual special event rather than a more regular market.

Timeline and required investment

Winter 2022.

Project - Light show experience

Current set-up

Light and sound shows are a popular seasonal attraction at other uban parks and country parks across Scotland. They typically feature different installations and artworks on a trail around the park, and are often themed.

Income potential and other benefits

The event would take place over 2-3 weeks during the winter months e.g. in the run up to Christmas. An initial pilot could be undertaken by a private operator, who would rent the land from MCP. In future years, the park could put this out to tender and have a more direct role and retain a larger proportion of the ticket income. Tickets for outdoor light show/trail events typically start at £20 for adults and £12 for children, taking around 60 to 90 minutes, and with entry from dusk until 7-8pm (closing around 9pm). Street food/drink is typically offered alongside the trail.

Risks

Minimise impact of the event on other park users and the park environment. Event itself would be taking place outside of usual park opening hours (from dusk into evening).

Timeline and required investment

Nov/Dec 2022 (if possible) or Winter 2023.

Project - Rental income

Current set-up

Rental income from the shop and café units brought in around £90,000 each year prior the pandemic. One unit (the cycle shop) has moved on to other, larger premises, but the remainder are leased.

Income potential and other benefits

The aim should be to retain this income at the current level – aiming for full occupation and small annual increases. The former cycle shop unit in the courtyard has been fitted out as the park’s visitor centre and the previous visitor centre as a hireable space (largely offsetting the loss of rental income).
The idea of an outdoor nursery at the park, with some indoor space, has been explored. This would be a good fit with the park’s aims and ethos, and could be an important source of income. This would also make use of currently under-used indoor space.

Risks

A detailed risk assessment would naturally be required before a nursery was located on site. The primary risks would be carried by the nursery operator.
Income from rental of shop/café units is an important source of income for the park. The existing tenants are a good fit with the park and there are no conflicts with wider park activity. The impact of changes to the park’s operations (e.g. introduction of parking charges) on traders would need to be monitored.

Timeline and required investment

Ongoing.

Project - Options study for Mugdock Quarry – to explore zip wire and water- based activities

Current set-up

There are long standing health and safety concerns with the quarry, which is a popular cliff jumping location. Security fencing and warning signs are in place.

Income potential and other benefits

Quarry attractions could provide exciting and safe activities in a currently underused (and misused) part of the Country Park.
A zip wire could be managed and run by a private operator, in a similar way to Bungee Jump Scotland at the NTS Killiecrankie site (charging £39 for 9 zip lines, taking 90 mins).
There is also scope for other water-based activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding or fishing.

Risks

The quarry is located on the edge of the Country Park and these activities would not need to intrude on the wider park. It would help manage the current dangerous use of the quarry. Not all of the suggestions may be compatible with one another – an options study can explore this in more detail.

Timeline and required investment

Study to take place in short to medium term, with a view to introducing quarry activities over a longer timeline.

Project - License charges for commercial activity in the park

Current set-up

There are no charges or regulation of informal commercial activity in the park, such as use by professional dog walkers or personal trainers running outdoor fitness classes.

Income potential and other benefits

An annual charge for use of the park for commercial activity could be introduced. This would be monitored by park wardens/rangers. The Royal Parks in London have licensed both dog walkers (£225-£300 ex. VAT) and fitness instructors (£280 -£1,500 ex. VAT) since 2013. However, charging at Mugdock would be lower than this and could offer discounts for multi-year licenses. It would also help manage this activity and ensure those undertaking activities as have appropriate insurance, training etc.

Risks

Currently no charges - could be negative publicity around introduction. If introduced alongside car parking charges, dog walkers/fitness instructors would also be required to pay for this each visit (or join FoM scheme). May also be difficult to monitor – would require spot checks by wardens/rangers.

Timeline and required investment

Charging structure and licensing arrangements would need to be agreed. Could be introduced 2023 or 2024.

Income potential at Mugdock closely correlates to the number of visitors that are coming to the park. In 2017, 2018 and 2019, between 630,000 and 640,000 visitors were recorded each year through the footfall counters at the park’s main entrance. Counters stopped functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic but have since been reinstated, with annual visitor numbers trending in excess of 800,000 people. This growth reflects the upsurge in popularity of accessible outdoor spaces during the pandemic.

Working backwards from the figure of 800,000 annual visitors, the table below uses evidence from the visitor survey (undertaken in late 2021 and early 2022 with 1,834 responses) to estimate how many are visiting on a weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual basis. This works out at around 102,000 unique visitors each year.

A Friends of Mugdock scheme is likely to appeal to more regular visitors, who will feel a closer affinity to the park and will be obtain more benefit from the incentives on offer, such as discounts on activities/purchases and free parking (assuming the scheme is introduced in parallel with parking charges). The table below provides an illustration of the potential income a membership programme could generate, based on relatively cautious assumptions that half of weekly visitors and 10% of monthly visitors would join the scheme, and small numbers of less frequent visitors.

There will be administrative and marketing costs associated with such a scheme, particularly if it is successful in attracting a large number of members. The mechanism for members to receive free parking would need to explored in further detail. This could mean a smart card to operate a parking barrier and/or receive a free ticket from a parking meter.

*Based on an individual membership rate of £19.99/year and family membership of £29.99/year, averaged at £24.99/year.

On the same basis, we have also estimated how much income could be generated from car parking charges. A more reliable estimate of the number of cars using Mugdock’s car parks could be obtained by installing vehicle counters on a temporary basis. However, the below provides an illustration of the income potential from car parking charges based on the data that is currently available. A range of variables have been taken into account, each of which can be adjusted as necessary. This includes:

• The total number of visitors – this could decline if visitors opt to travel to other locations. However, most visitors are local
• The proportion of visitors who are members and therefore get free parking – the assumptions follow through from Table 2
• The proportion of visitors arriving by car – this is currently 85% but parking charges may encourage more to walk/cycle
• The average number of people per car – although we do not have data specifically for Mugdock, a review of evidence from similar locations indicates that this likely falls between two and three people, including children
• The amount charged per car – the below model has used a low daily rate of £1.50, but other similar locations often charge a higher rate.

Table 3:  Parking Income - Estimates

If visitors reduced to 630,000 per year, and other variables remain unchanged, total gross income would reduce to £255,000.

If the membership scheme grew to take in 90% of weekly visitors, and other variables remain unchanged, total gross income from parking would reduce to £272,000. However, this would be offset by an increase in membership income.

Mugdock Country Park is a public asset operated and maintained by East Dunbartonshire Council and Stirling Council for the benefits of communities and as a regional visitor attraction. Developing the asset and maximising the value of the park to communities requires significant reinvestment if it is to secure the project objectives.

The park needs a comprehensive programme of capital investment and this needs to be public sector led reflecting the nature of the asset. Commercial opportunities have been identified at the Stables Arrival Hub and where charging for services might allow. These are modest in extent. Further commercial opportunities may exist (Venue Hire/ Events/ Market/Wellbeing/ Children’s Trail) but are likely to be generated from confidence in the destination and confirmed levels of footfall and customer service needs. The capital funding programme envisages:

Mugdock Country Park Capital/Revenue Investment

• Continued Revenue / Operational Funding as required
• Capital Funding Programme (EDC/SC) suggested programme being:
  
  * Year 1/2—£449,000 2022/23
  * Year 2/3—£810,000 2023/24
  * Year 3/4—£1.3 million 2024/25
  * Year 4/5—£481,000 2025/26
  * Year 5/6—£100,000 2026/27
   
• Grant Support & Leverage Funding (Commercial Partners)
  * £617,000 Years 1– 5 2022/27.
   
• Grant Support
  A wide range of grant support programmes exist. For Parks many of these focus on heritage assets and more traditional park development. Securing significant external funds for Mugdock will be challenging. The primary focus will be to seek to develop projects with partners focussed on Natural Environment/ Heritage/ Active Travel and Community Initiatives.
   
• Grant Applications Environmental & Woodland/Woodland Management Project
  Grant support funding from external bodies is likely to focus on partner activity and support for areas of development that align closely with external funder remits and objectives. Potential opportunities to explore include NatureScot; Central Scotland Green Network, Forestry Commission Scotland; Sustrans and a range of potential new funding streams associated with Climate Change Action Funds.
   
• Grant Applications Active Travel Projects
  Sustrans have invested heavily in active travel and the development of national/ regional cycle routes. Paths for Everyone / Places for Everyone funding supports projects that encourage and make it easier for people to walk and cycle for everyday journeys. Sustrans categorise projects 1-4 with funding support typically 50% of capital costs, dialogue on specific projects is recommended to explore opportunities /determine levels of funding support associated with developing active travel routes, in particular town centre links.
   
• Grant Applications Community Based Projects
  A wide range of funding support vehicles are available to third Sector /Trust and wider Community Partners. Small grant sums support a wide range of environmental, access; community; educational; arts projects and projects targeted disadvantaged and excluded groups. Funds are typically small and frequently support programmes and participatory initiatives rather than solely capital projects.
   
• Leverage Funding & Complementary Investment
  Commercial applications within Mugdock are limited. The opportunities are strongest where commercial operations could complement activity and represent a viable commercial operation (potentially at the Stables Hub) or where development obligations would allow cross funding.
   
• Investment by Co-Partners & Service Operators
  Limited areas of activity in the park could be attractive to private operators. Outward Bound/Wellness/Unleashed Dog field type activities offer a limited opportunity for capital/revenue funding. These are unlikely, in our view to raise significant new capital funds and in some cases require considerable initial outlay.
   
• Donation Schemes
  Over and above the existing donation posts which are located within the Stable Car Park possible donations schemes to plant a tree, sponsor a bench, donate for grasslands, wetlands etc should be explored. It is noted however that careful monitoring is required to ensure the Country Park does not become saturated with these elements and that they are only permitted within the key visitor areas and do not encroach on the SSSI.
   
• Staff Resources
  A key asset for Mugdock Country Park is its staff. Current resourcing includes for 10.5 full time employment posts. In taking forward a five year Strategy for MCP a review of current staff levels will be necessary to ensure staffing is appropriate to the strategic direction of the Park and allows suitable commitment to key Action Plan projects.

Visitor numbers to Mugdock Country Park and the adjacent area were at an unprecedented level during 2020 highlighting existing vehicular and pedestrian pressures on the landscape and its neighbouring road infrastructure.

The Country Park comprises a number of key parts:

• The Stables Visitor Centre & associated facilities
• Mugdock Castle
• Craigend Castle
• Mugdock Wood and SSSIs
• Walled Garden
• WWII Gunsites

The aspiration for Mugdock Country Park’s future is that all these constituent parts work together and with their adjoining communities to increase the overall visitor offer. Careful planning and site wide management is identified as key to maximising potential and user experience. Engagement is seen as providing the opportunity for users to guide this development of a future Masterplan for Mugdock Country Park. In December 2021 visitor and stakeholder surveys were created and advertised through a variety of social media channels, the Country Park website, through Park staff outreach to communities and on site. The surveys were live from 20 December 2021 until 5pm on 17 January 2022. Surveys were further supported by online Stakeholder Workshops encouraging further discussion of the key issues at play.

A total of 1834 responses were received to the Visitor Survey and 12 responses to the Stakeholder Survey.

Visitor Survey Responses

How far do you travel to visit the Park?

How often do you visit?

How long do you usually spend at the park?

Where do you live ?

If East Dunbartonshire or Stirling which town/village are you from?

The highest proportion of people noted were from:

• Bearsden 478
• Bishopbriggs 160
• Milngavie 310
• Kirkintilloch, Milton of Campsie, Torrance, Lenzie and Strathblane also had high numbers of respondents.

What do you think are it’s 4 key strengths/ most important reasons to visit?

What do you think are it’s four key weaknesses/ issues that need to be addressed?

Developing a clear plan of action is vital. In summary the Mugdock Country Park Strategy 2022-2027 proposes actions to:

• Reinforce Heritage elements – building upon existing core facilities to enhance setting and maximise place value and impact
• Enhance facilities & activities - to better support Events use and generate increased income
• Improve legibility – through rationalisation of entrance and connections to key routes
• Improve biodiversity through developing projects across the Park – aiming to maximise the benefits to the natural asset
• Secure Investment – to deliver improved quality of facility & service throughout
• Introduce at least ONE new attraction or facility - to add to and strengthen the visitor offer
• Provide full access – for all user groups, to ensure no one is excluded
• Build meaningful experience - through more & improved Education & Interpretation

Do you agree with this strategy?

During December 2021 and January 2022 three Stakeholder Workshops were held to provide a forum for wider discussion about initial Mugdock Country Park thoughts

Workshops were held on:

• Thursday 16th December 2021, 3-4pm (6 attendees)
• Wednesday 12th January 2022, 11-12pm (15 attendees)
• Friday 14th January 2022, 10-11am (12 attendees)

Attendees invited included:

• Councillors
• Community members eg Milngavie Community Council, Strathblanefield Community Council
• Council officials and staff from both EDC & SC
• Mugdock Trust
• Audit Scotland
• Mugdock Staff
• Mugdock Traders
• Other interested organisations eg Milngavie In Bloom, Scottish Water, Caledonia Water Alliance, NatureScot, HES, Friends of Mugdock Reservoir, Strathblane Community Development Trust, Police Scotland, Landowners

Which sector do you represent?

What is your main focus currently in relation to Mugdock Country Park?

Do you visit the park yourself within your leisure time?

How do you travel to the park?

How far do you travel to visit the park?

How often do you visit?

How long do you usually spend at the Park?

Where do you live?

What do you think are it’s 4 key strengths/ most important reasons to visit?

What do you think are it’s 4 key weaknesses/ issues that need to be addressed?

Do you agree with this strategy?

Of the respondents who did not select ‘yes’ the majority were supportive of key principles but points were raised about the detrimental effect of more visitors to Mugdock’s sensitive infrastructure.

Tell us which you support?

Mugdock Country Park provides a well loved and greatly appreciated destination with a wide range of facilities available to all visitors whether local or those from further afield. The level of response received reinforces this.

Survey responses will be used to guide the development of the Mugdock Country Park Strategy 2022-2027 and will greatly assist in the development of wider Masterplan level proposals.

East Dunbartonshire Council will continue to engage on all levels with users and seek further consultation, once proposals have been developed as key to Mugdock Country Park’s future success.