Tipperary playground awarded over €16,000 in funding for accessibility upgrades

A Tipperary playground has been awarded over €16,000 in Government funding to upgrade play equipment.

The playground in Carrick-on-Suir has been given €16,443 for upgrade works, and to add inclusive play equipment.

The funding comes as part of an overall €500,000 investment under the The Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation, and was announced by Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley.

The Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation provides funding to support city and county councils in upgrading existing playgrounds or developing new playgrounds.

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Many of the projects funded under this year’s scheme give particular focus to inclusion and access and will help to ensure that children with a diverse range of needs can avail of the benefits of high-quality play facilities alongside their peers.

Some of these funded projects include the installation of wheelchair-accessible seesaws, inclusive sensory playground equipment and inclusive play space, and upgraded accessibility features.

Minister Foley said that the funding will enable councils to make playgrounds accessible for all.

"I am delighted to announce this capital funding that will directly benefit families and children in every corner of Ireland. These grants will enable city and county councils to create and upgrade playgrounds, making them more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.

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"I want to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to the local authorities for their applications and I look forward to seeing the benefits these projects will provide to local communities for many years to come," she added.

As part of the funding scheme, councils had to consult with local children and young people to receive any grant funding for playgrounds and play areas under the scheme, as well as having to provide matching funding of at least 25~% of the cost of the project.