Works to begin on 'major upgrade' of playground in Limerick's People's park

WORKS will begin this week to install Limerick city’s first fully-inclusive playground at the People’s Park in the city centre.

The project, details of which were first reported several weeks ago, is expected to be completed within a span of six to eight weeks.

As the old playground is being completely replaced, Limerick City and County Council has confirmed the facility will be closed to the public to facilitate the works.

A spokesperson said the local authority "regrets the disruption that this will cause," but adds that "this project will deliver an improved experience for all users."

The upgraded park (see image below) will feature a combination of equipment to provide a wide-ranging design full of accessible, inclusive equipment.

Offering everything from sliding, swinging, climbing, and bouncing, to spinning, balancing, socialising and imaginative play opportunities, the park is soon to be enjoyed by all.

Among the notable features, wheelchair-accessible equipment such as a roundabout, a trampoline, and a sand digger will be provided.

Additionally, other equipment will be accessible by transfer, ensuring children of various mobility levels can enjoy the playground's offerings. A wide slide on the park's embankment will allow children and carers to slide together.

In a bid to foster social integration, swing sets equipped with a large bucket-molded seat and a lockable "roller coaster" style harness will enable children lacking muscular strength and coordination to relish the swinging sensation alongside their peers.

A dedicated sensory area will feature an assortment of games panels, musical panels, and a story-telling zone.

Frustration as revamp of playground at Limerick park is scheduled for summer months

Carmel Lynch, Head of Parks and Senior Executive Engineer with Limerick City and County Council, highlighted the significance of inclusivity, stating, "inclusivity is now a basis requirement for any new playground. The new People’s Park Playground will see the removal of all the existing surfacing and playground equipment."

She added, "the new design is a steer away from the traditional type of playground and provides opportunities for more imaginative and creative play."

The redevelopment project, funded by the elected members of the Metropolitan District of the Council and Limerick Sports Partnership, will be executed by Garden Escapes Ireland Ltd, a company who specialise in the design of play and sports areas.