Double celebration in Ardglass as plan is unveiled with park

Double celebration in Ardglass as plan is unveiled with park

10 September 2014

ARDGLASS was firmly in the spotlight yesterday with the opening of a new £130,000 play park and the unveiling of a new village plan.

The play park is located at The Meadow with funding provided by the Down Rural Area Partnership (DRAP) and Housing Executive. Both organisations also contributed to the cost of financing the village plan.

The new plan identifies a range of projects to improve village life, from enhancing community and leisure facilities to boosting enterprise and investment in the local economy.

Developed by the Ardglass Residents’ Group, the plan also received support from the Co. Down Community Network and was shaped following an extensive period of consultation with local residents.

Elizabeth Walsh, chairwoman of the Residents’ Group, said it was great to see so many residents getting involved in developing the village plan.

Speaking at yesterday’s launch, she described the plan as an “essential document” for all groups as it sets out the needs identified by people living in Ardglass.

“The plan provides voluntary groups with a vision and evidence of need when seeking funding for future projects,” Elizabeth continued.

The residents’ group also played a key role in developing and securing finance for the new play facility, with DRAP chairman, Robert Adair, paying tribute to the Ardglass group and the local community.

“The community’s enthusiastic response to the call to action during the consultation process and the community group’s commitment to the development of a village plan which has at its heart, the betterment of their area, deserves to be commended and congratulated,” he continued.

“Moreover, the wonderful new play park is another product of the hard work of the residents’ group which worked closely alongside DRAP staff, Down Council and Co. Down Community Network to make the project a success.”

Councillor Adair said the new high standard play park encourages children to play together, interact and socialise through physical activity. He said he has no doubt this “worthwhile project” will bring great benefits to the youth of Ardglass and the surrounding area.

Ardglass councillor Dermot Curran, who was also involved in the campaign for the new play park, is delighted it has been so well received by the local community.

He added: “I am delighted the play park is a major success and that so many people took the time to get involved in the formation of a village plan.”