A planned programme of works has been put in place in the wake of the establishment of a new parks and cemeteries renewal and repair fund, which was outlined to Angus strategic policy committee on Tuesday.

This new fund replaces the equipment renewal and repair fund, which has become dormant in recent years, and will focus directly on the needs of parks and cemeteries service provision.

In a report to committee, officers explain that the new fund has a £400,000 spend kitty for the current financial year, as the local authority strives to bridge an estimated £2.7 million funding gap to bring the county's parks and cemeteries up to an appropriate standard.

The £40,000 earmarked for Kirriemuir Den will allow for the replacement and upgrading of paths, steps and eroded areas.

The news has been welcomed by Kirriemuir Community Councillor Harry Racionzer who first raised concerns at the deterioration of Den pathways a couple of years back.

"Some of the pathways are pot-holed, while others, particularly in the north-west corner are badly eroded, and part of the fencing is desperately in need of attention.

"But the new funding plans and the money earmarked for the Den in the current financial year is great news, particularly with the community gearing up for celebrations to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of J. M. Barrie in 2010."

The new fund will also provide cash for projects in other parts of Angus, with £50,000 allocated to replace existing worn play equipment in Brechin public park and £70,000 in the kitty for the relocation of a play area in Victoria Park, Arbroath.

In addition to specified projects, there will be expenditure on general repairs in cemeteries, the planned work including repairs to the pavilion in Kirriemuir Cemetery, step repairs to Glen Clova Churchyard and pathway repairs at Glamis Cemetery.