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100 years after Viscount Chelmsford officially opened Newtongrange Welfare Park, residents of the Midlothian village are being asked for their suggestions on how to celebrate the centenary in September. From a parade through the village and a vintage-inspired tea party, to a kids’ scavenger hunt and time capsule competition – suggestions as to how to make this a day to remember are currently being welcomed by Newtongrange Community Council.
With such a significant milestone on the horizon, members of Newtongrange Community Council are keen to ensure the event is as inclusive, fun and memorable as possible. So they are calling on local community groups as well as residents past and present to submit their ideas and get involved.
Opened to the public in 1926, Newtongrange Welfare Park was funded by the District Miner’s Welfare Committee using a levy on coal production. Today, it is a well-used and well-loved recreational space that encompasses football pitches, tennis courts, pétanque pistes, skate park, war memorial, bandstand, sensory garden, floral displays and play equipment. It is also home to the old bowling pavilion which is currently being brought back to life by Newtongrange Development Trust.
Commenting on the historical significance of this park, June Robertson of Newtongrange Village Voices explains; “In terms of its heritage, Newtongrange was built as a model village and the Welfare Park was central to the well-being of the miners. For decades, it has been the setting for various important events, from the annual Gala Day celebrations to the Remembrance Day services. Despite the many changes that Newtongrange has gone through over the years, as a Field in Trust the park has been wonderfully preserved and it’s a source of much pride for our village.”
Celebrations are due to take place on Saturday 19th September and as Jeremy Adderley, Chair of Newtongrange Community Council explains, it is set to be a day that unites the village; “We have a real opportunity here to create an event that brings everyone together, young and old. It’s also an opportunity to showcase what an important asset this park is to our village. We’re envisaging music, entertainment, historical games, a picnic and a good old fashioned park fair, but we’d love as many local community groups and businesses as possible to get involved to help shape the day.”
Suggestions of how to mark the centenary and notes of interest from local community groups and businesses that would like to get involved should be emailed to secretary@newtongrange.org by Friday 27th March 2026.
The post Newtongrange park set to celebrate centenary appeared first on Edinburgh Magazine – Positive Local News in Edinburgh, Scotland.
