Tennis site to fund trust cash?

The site, on Stamperland Hill, has been derelict for a decade despite attempts by the local residents association to bring it back into use.

Now, according to independent councillor Ralph Roberston, the money used from the sale of the old courts will be used to directly benefit Stamperland residents — minus a sum paid to sportscotland to make up for the loss of a sports facility.

He told The Extra: “It’s a shame that the courts could not be saved, but this site has been an eyesore for considerable years and attempts to get the courts back in use have proved impossible — it would have cost hundreds of thousands of pounds.

“Now, the money from the grounds will be put in a trust for Stamperland residents only.

“Decisions on its distribution will lie with the residents association, but it could go to the church for example, or local good causes.”

Figures for the sale of the land and the sum paid to sportscotland have not been disclosed, but Stamperland residents association is expected to discuss the matter at its AGM meeting on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, work is now underway for the Northcare Scotland care home.

Councillor Robertson added: “The biggest worry was parking, as there’s congestion in the area already — but I believe there’s underground parking provision in the approved plan, and that will alleviate potential problems.

“Most residents didn’t want to lose the tennis courts, but the feeling was that the site just couldn’t go on as it was. Something had to be done and the money can now be used wisely for the benefit of Stamperland.”