Agnew Park in Stranraer received a Three Star Quality Assurance (QA) Award following a recent assessment visit by a Quality Tourism Advisor, in recognition of the very good quality of tourist attraction on offer.
The park re-opened in July following renovation work to improve the facilities to Agnew Park, which now include a boating lake, miniature railway, play island as well as a putting green and go cart track.
The park also benefits from new toilet facilities, new footpaths and cafe as well as gardens and pathways linking to Stranraer marina, Stranraer waterfront and the town centre.
Councillor Colin Smyth, Chairman of Dumfries & Galloway Council’s Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee said: “It is great to see Agnew Park being recognised by Visit Scotland, and our thanks to them for this recognition in the form of the 3 Star award. It’s a ringing endorsement of the investment made by the council and our partners in the redevelopment of the Park.
“Our Council is committed to investing in project that build the local economy. The rejuvenated park and café will bring in many visitors as well as locals to the park all year round. The play equipment is state of the art and any children who’ve had a go on the equipment certainly have a smile on their face. The café offers a chance to get a spot of lunch before or after a walk in the park or a shot on the swings or zip line. The café looks superb inside and out and I would encourage anyone to pay a visit to Agnew Park the next time they’re in or around Stranraer.”
Doug Wilson, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “This three star award for Agnew Park is a welcome boost to the local area, as well as the region as a whole. The park has been transformed following its recent upgrade and will help to attract visitors to Stranraer.
“Having visitor attractions like this which place an emphasis on good quality strengthens our tourism offering and increases our marketability of Dumfries & Galloway as a destination which offers a superb and exciting range of things to see and do.”
Developed and improved over the past four decades, the QA scheme is a tourism industry world-leader, providing a trusted, independent and impartial source of information for visitors. Enabling businesses to not just meet visitor expectations but exceed them, it is delivered by a dedicated team of experts who offer valuable business advice and support. The scheme is not just about driving standards; it aims to help businesses reach their full potential so they can reap the benefits and secure their success. That in turn delivers benefits for the economy of their region and for Scotland’s tourism industry.
For more information on the VisitScotland Quality Assurance scheme, visit www.visitscotland.org
For more information on Agnew Park, visit http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/article/15664/Agnew-Park
