Interactive play tower to be built at Tullamore town park

TULLAMORE'S Lloyd Town Park will receive €18,220 in government funding for the installation of a new interactive play tower at the town’s playground.

The funding comes under the Department of Children, Disability and Equality’s Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation, which was announced this week by Minister Norma Foley. The scheme aims to improve play areas across the country with a strong focus on inclusivity and accessibility.

Tullamore based Deputy Tony McCormack described the funding as “great news for our children” and praised the ongoing efforts to enhance local amenities.

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“It’s important to invest in play areas, especially when we know the damage that social media and screen time can do to developing minds,” said Deputy McCormack.

“We need to give children opportunities to play, explore, and interact socially with others as much as possible.”

Tullamore is one of 28 towns and communities nationwide to benefit from this round of funding, with a total of €500,000 allocated nationally. Projects receiving funding this year were required to consult with local children and young people, as well as provide matching funding from the local authority.

“Playgrounds are vital for children’s development — physically, socially and emotionally. This investment will make a real difference to families in Tullamore.”

Deputy John Clendennen said the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation provides funding to local authorities to upgrade playgrounds or develop new playgrounds.

“I am delighted to see funding of €18,220 that will benefit children in Tullamore. Every child should have access to a safe and modern play area.

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“The benefits of outdoor play for children are well known, it’s good for their health, they can make new friends, it inspires the imagination and brings excitement into young lives.

“We want to see these upgrades so that our playgrounds are more accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for all children.

“I look forward to seeing the completed project in Lloyd Town Park Tullamore. I know this project will have a major impact on the vibrancy of our local community and the town.

“As part of this scheme councils had to consult with local children and young people to receive any funding, so children in Tullamore are at the heart of this project and I hope families across the county will avail of this upgraded play area.

“This funding will provide state of the art play areas for all children here in Offaly, encouraging them to play in safe surroundings”, concluded Deputy Clendennen.