Concerns raised over surge in graffiti at popular Tipperary playground
Nenagh Playground has had a surge in graffiti over the last few months
Growing worries have been voiced about a rise in graffiti across Nenagh, with particular focus on one of the town’s playgrounds.
At the most recent Nenagh Municipal District meeting, Cllr JP O'Meara highlighted his shock at discovering offensive graffiti - including racial insults and swastikas - during a visit to St Paul's Playground. He noted that the facility, which he once played in as a child, has served several generations of local families.
While acknowledging the long-standing popularity of the playground, Cllr O'Meara expressed his dismay at its current condition.
“There are some very good actual graffiti artists in town at the moment; maybe they could do something,” he suggested, describing the space as “an absolute eyesore at the moment.”
He also emphasized the town's growing diversity, noting that many local children come from international backgrounds. He queried whether Tipperary County Council might be able to intervene to improve the playground’s condition.
Responding to the concerns, District Administrator Rosemary Joyce confirmed that the council is aware of the issue and has been working with Nenagh College and the local Tidy Towns group.
She explained that a mural had been in progress at the site, but it was defaced by graffiti. A team of local artists is now planning a new mural at the basketball court section of the playground.
She condemned the recent acts of vandalism, calling the situation “appalling.” She also noted a “marked increase” in graffiti throughout the town in recent weeks and urged members of the public to report any incidents or perpetrators.