Stoneyford’s new play area officially opened

After a number of years in planning the new play area in Barrack Hill has been developed by the Council. The Deputy Mayor Alderman William Leathem officiated at the opening.

The play area is the first of five to be developed by the Council in the coming months.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, said: “We are committed to meeting the needs of local communities through the provision of leisure facilities such as this play area, community grants and art programmes.

“It is a privilege to be able to open this play area along with Gerry Magennis, Chairman of the Stoneyford Community Association. Members of the local community, of all ages, have worked with the Council in the development of the play area including the planting of flowers in the area.

“It is very important that young people have somewhere safe to play with their family and friends; and thanks to the provision of this site by the developer this has been possible. I am sure you all agree that the equipment which has been installed and the safety matting are first-class.

“The Council will maintain the play area and its equipment and I would like to thank the Lagan Rural Partnership for providing 75% funding for the project which cost over £60,000.”

The play area was part of the planning approval process for the housing development and therefore formed part of the University of Ulster’s Community Development Plan for Stoneyford in 2010.