Kids make imagination a reality, helping to design £500k new Co Down playgrounds
Children have helped bring half a million in smiles to newly revamped playgrounds in Co Down.
That’s because local kids contributed to the design of three facilities worth a total of £510,000, making their imaginations a colourful reality that can be enjoyed by generations to come.
Unveiled in recent weeks, the playgrounds are in the Northfield area of Donaghadee, plus Islandview in Greyabbey, and on Groomsport’s seafront.
Each of the revamped facilities cost £170,000 and transform what were ageing and increasingly run-down play parks in need of refurbishment into modern, inclusive spaces for families to enjoy.
A key feature of all three projects, said officials from Ards and North Down Council, was the involvement of local schoolchildren throughout the design process.
Consultation and engagement sessions were held with pupils, giving them the opportunity to view suggested designs, learn about different types of play equipment, ask questions, and vote on their preferred options.
The feedback gathered during these sessions, stated officials, played an important role in shaping the final designs, ensuring the new playgrounds reflected the wishes and needs of the young people who will make use of them.
In Groomsport, for example, pupils brought up a strong interest in interactive and energetic play features, including an in-ground trampoline and musical play equipment, both of which were built into the final design.
Children were recently invited to test out the facilities they helped create, seeing how their ideas became a reality as they enjoyed play mornings at the three sites.
Groomsport’s seafront playground saw pupils from Ballyholme Primary School join Ards and North Down’s new mayor, Craig Blaney, to unveil the facility.
“It is fantastic to see this newly refurbished play park officially open and already being enjoyed by local children and families,” said Ulster Unionist Mr Blaney. “This investment has created a modern, inclusive space that the whole community can be proud of.
“I’m especially pleased that local children played such an important role in shaping its design. This is a wonderful example of how involving young people can make a real difference; their ideas have helped bring this space to life, ensuring it will be enjoyed for many years to come.”