Action demanded to improve 'out of date' and 'unsafe' Limerick playground

THE CONDITION of the public playground at Castle Demesne Park in Newcastle West has drawn criticism from Fianna Fáil councillor Michael Collins, who says the issue has been “going on for 15 years”.

During the September meeting of the Municipal District of Newcastle West, Cllr Collins claimed there are ongoing safety concerns and that he has reported “unsafe” aspects of the playground to the relevant authorities.

A council official said she was not aware of any of the apparatus at the playground being dangerous.

Having raised his concerns, Cllr Collins also told the meeting that he is aware of local families who are travelling elsewhere, including to to Abha Bhán Parish Park in Loughill, due to the poor quality of the playground in the County Town.

The former mayor also criticised the fact that councillors were allegedly promised a trip abroad to visit other playgrounds for inspiration, but that this trip never materialised.

Aidan Finn, Head of Environment and Climate Action at Limerick City and County Council, responded to the councillor’s request for an update.

In a written reply, he stated: “An ecologist has been appointed to carry out screening and survey works to assure compliance at planning stage and include all required protection measures.”

“An independent Engineering Consultancy firm is in the process of being appointed to review the current preferred road layout option and carry out a traffic assessment and road safety audit,” he added.

“Once results have been received from both Consultants, we will progress the preparation of the Part 8 planning application including all necessary consultations.”

In April, Limerick City and County Council issued an update regarding the playground: “Plans are also advancing for a major enhancement of [Newcastle West’s] playground, with options being developed to significantly expand and reimagine the space as a modern, inclusive facility.”