Limerick city playgrounds open and close

IT’S OUT with the old and in with the new in Limerick city this week, as two local playgrounds are undergoing changes.

People’s Park playground is set to open this Monday, while the playground at O’Brien’s Park on Clare St is said to close for renovations on the same day.

Earlier this summer, Limerick City and County Council announced the plans for Limerick’s “first fully inclusive” playground, which aims to incorporate a variety of features designed to cater to children of diverse needs.

Opening this Monday, a spokesperson for the council has said: “The newly-revitalised playground promises to provide children of all abilities and ages with an environment that fosters inclusive play, accessibility, and boundless imagination.”

On the other side of the city, across from Limerick School of Art and Design, another playground is due to close for renovations, and like the People's Park playground will be a haven for inclusive play.

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In a statement on Twitter, Limerick City and County Council said: “The playground at O’Brien’s Park is set to undergo an exciting transformation with works due to begin week commencing September 4.”

It is understood the playground will close for approximately three weeks, but the council have assured park-goers that the grounds’ opening hours are not going to be affected by the upgrades.

Of the renovations in People’s Park, Carmel Lynch, Head of Parks, and Senior Executive Engineer with Limerick City and County Council said: “Inclusivity is now a basis requirement for any new playground.

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

The council have apologised for any inconvenience caused by the closure, but welcome every child to the new play area, suitable for all ages and abilities in the heart of Limerick.