Heritage park given top tourism approval

Nov 19 2008 by Graham Mann, East Kilbride News

JAMES Hamilton Heritage Park in the town has been given the stamp of approval by The Scottish Tourist Board.

The popular East Kilbride leisure facility was given a four star Activity Centre Award after its very first assessment by Visit Scotland.

The news was welcomed by East Kilbride councillor Gerry Convery, chair of the board of South Lanarkshire Leisure Ltd, who manage the park on behalf of the council.

Councillor Convery said that the award is a major boost for the park and loch which are regarded as one of the biggest attractions for local people and visitors.

The East Kilbride councillor said: "This is a wonderful achievement for James Hamilton Heritage Park to have gained a four star award on the very first assessment.

“The James Hamilton park and loch is an excellent water sports facility for the whole of South Lanarlshire.

“The attractions draws visitors from both near and far to enjoy the water sports activities, the excellent pathways for a leisurely walk, children's play area and a lovely welcoming café with excellent food.

“I am very proud of the staff at the park and loch who work hard throughout the season to make it a welcoming and fun place for people of all ages to visit“.”

Councillor Convery continued: "Receiving this award is a reflection of all the hard work and dedication applied not only by the staff at the Heritage Park, but also South Lanarkshire Council, Land Services and the team of staff at Gracie's on the Loch Café."

To meet the criteria for the award, there are areas that must achieve ‘sectional consistency’ standards.

These include arrival, attraction, catering, retail and toilets. All of these areas must achieve the minimum percentage of the relevant grading band for that award to be confirmed.

This four star award reflects the high standard of the facility, the consistency of the service given, attention to customer care and the variety of activities on offer.