Castledykes Park
People’s Project volunteers work collaboratively with Dumfries and Galloway Council in this 13-acre green space in Dumfries.
Our enthusiastic volunteers meet regularly and help to maintain and improve the park. The People’s Project has been responsible for making Castledykes a more attractive and interesting place to visit.
Around the grounds
In the centre of the Sunken Garden, we installed a statue of Robert the Bruce which was carved by a local craftsman, Pete Bowsher.
Inmates of H.M. Prison, Dumfries kindly built bird, bat, bug and hedgehog boxes for us using donated wood. We have installed these habitats throughout the park, helping to increase biodiversity.
Interpretation Boards
We have designed and installed interpretation boards highlighting the park’s history, biodiversity and geology. Each board has a QR code and links to an eBook.
Park Shelter
After consultation with local schools and members of the public, it was felt that a shelter would be a useful addition to the park. In Spring 2022 we installed an attractive wooden shelter which has been much appreciated by visitors. It has the capacity to seat a full class of school children.
Wild Flowers
We have created a 35-metre wild flower border which incorporates log piles, beetle buckets and a wide variety of native plants. Adjacent to this border we have placed two boards to help with identification of wildflowers and wildlife that may be found in the park. There are also two Magposts which can be used to magnify items of interest.
Orienteering
The People’s Project was involved in creating two permanent orienteering courses which can be used by pre-school, primary and secondary aged pupils and youth groups. The maps for the courses can be accessed using QR codes which can be found in the shelter. These courses were designed in collaboration with Solway Orienteers, Active Schools, St. Joseph’s College P.E. Department and Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Covid Memorial
During the pandemic we felt it was appropriate to provide seating in a quiet space within the park. We provided a memorial plaque and two seats which are surrounded by flower beds containing sensory plants.
Park Murals
Large murals depicting local history, painted by local artist, Jo McSkimming, are displayed throughout the park.
