A team of locals has been appointed to staff the Crawick Multiverse, the new £1m work of land art which will open to the public on 10 July.
12 people from the local community – representing Sanquhar, Kirkconnel, Kelloholm, Wanlockhead and Crawick itself – have this week taken up full and part-time posts at the new attraction, designed by renowned land artist, Charles Jencks, and funded by the Duke of Buccleuch.
They will work throughout the season to help run the site, greeting and guiding guests, patrolling the Multiverse and answering visitors’ questions.
Some of the team got a first taste of their new roles at the project’s official launch earlier this month, when they were among the first to see the landmark project come to fruition.
Shane Clark, 20, who lives in Crawick, is one of the new recruits. He says: “I’m really pleased to be working at Crawick Multiverse as it’s something new and exciting for the area. It’s brilliant to be able to work outdoors and enjoy the amazing land art every day – there aren’t many jobs out there quite like it!
“I’m looking forward to the official opening on 10th July when people will be able to explore the site for themselves – it will be wonderful to help them to enjoy the experience.”
Rosalind Baker, Mobilisation Manager at Crawick Multiverse, said: “We’re delighted that we’ve been able to create these positions here in Upper Nithsdale and appoint local people to help manage this wonderful new attraction.
“The local community has been an intrinsic part of the Crawick Multiverse since its inception, so to have residents involved in the day-to-day running of the site is really important.
“The team is undergoing training at the moment and we look forward to welcoming guests on site from next week.”
Local residents in the DG4 and ML12 postcode areas are eligible for a Pay Once Scheme at Crawick Multiverse, securing a season pass for the cost of one visit. Those within these postcodes can also convert their launch ticket to a season pass.
General tickets are £5 for adults (£4 for concessions), £2 for children aged between five and 16, with under-5s admitted free of charge. Family passes for two adults and two children are priced at £12.50.
Community buses are available to Crawick Multiverse from Kirkconnel, Kelloholm and Sanquhar on 10th, 11th and 12th July. Times are available from Kirkonnel Heritage Society and A The Airts when purchasing tickets, or on the Multiverse website.
