A new state-of-the-art play park opened in Clady today – and another at Gosford Forest Park is due to be completed shortly.
Both developments come as a huge boost to the local communities and visitors.
And the works have been welcomed by local SDLP Councillor Sharon Haughey-Grimley, who has long championed the need for enhanced play provision.
She first raised the need for a play park in Clady when elected back in 2005.
And today – as local children got a first chance to use the park, with an official launch expected in September – she welcomed the completion.
Councillor Haughey-Grimley has also welcomed the progress on the play area in Gosford Forest Park, which she has also been working on over the years.
The SDLP representative, who is Chair of the Economic Development and Regeneration Committee on Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, has said the provision of play and recreation facilities across the Armagh area, including Clady, will not only benefit local children, young people and parents, but will also make areas more attractive to visitors.
Speaking as local children are given access to the Clady Play Park for the first time today, Cllr Haughey told Armagh I: “I am thrilled that the children and young people of Clady and surrounding areas will now benefit from this fantastic play and recreation facility.
“It has taken a long time to make this happen but I think the people of Clady will be absolutely delighted with their new facilities, which are state-of-the-art.
“I have been working closely with council officials for the last 10 years to deliver this amazing play park which is a major investment into the Clady area.
“I thank all in Clady Community Association and Paul Hanna from council for their assistance throughout this long process.
“The play and recreation facility includes children’s play equipment and also an impressive floodlit 3G fully enclosed basketball court, which means there is something here for all age groups.
“I will also be continuing to work with Clady Community Association and council officers to complete this project with the inclusion of a community garden on this site also.
“The Clady Play Park is the latest facility to be completed by the council, which highlights council’s commitment to community and recreation services and facilities.
“I also look forward to the completion of Gosford Park Play area, which is currently being developed by Forestry Service and is expected to be completed within the coming weeks.
“The play facility at Gosford Forest Park will add to the tourism offering in Gosford, offering children the opportunity to play in magnificent surroundings.
“This will benefit local people and tourists alike, providing a play facility fitting for a forest park.
“A lot of hard work has been done to bring these projects to fruition and I am delighted that these facilities will offer children and young people a safe, clean and fun environment to play, explore and develop.”
Pictured: Cllr Sharon Haughey-Grimley at the new state-of-the-art play park which is progressing well at Gosford Forest Park.
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