That was the message from Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie during a visit today to see the play parks at first hand.
Margaret Ritchie said: “These new play parks are good news for residents, parents and children in the Bond Street and Leafair areas of the city. I hope they will be used and enjoyed by all local residents, thereby enhancing their quality of life.”
Commenting on the importance of play in children’s development, she said: “Play is an integral part of building social skills from a young age. It is where lessons of fairness, comradeship and team building are learnt. It is also important for promoting active and healthy lifestyles in children.”
Over £200,000 of funding was provided to the Bond Street and Leafair play parks through the Departments Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund. Derry City Council will retain ownership of these parks and ensure the management and maintenance of them. The play parks are situated within Neighbourhood Renewal areas in Derry.
During the visit the Minister also took the opportunity to visit the latest phase of the Shantallow Greencare project. The project has brought derelict land around Shantallow Community Centre into use. Previous phases include the development of a multi usage games area and mini golf course. The latest phase consists of a number of environmental improvements. This includes the upgrading of the existing play area which will be resurfaced, fenced, drained and landscaped. It has received almost £115,000 from the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund.
Notes to Editors:
- The play park in Bond Street was delivered in partnership with Bond Street Community Association, Big Lottery Fund (Peoples Millions and Breathing Spaces), Groundwork NI through Greencare North West project, PSNI and Derry City Council. The total cost of the project was £250,706 with the department’s Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund contributing £71,914.
- The play park in Leafair was delivered in partnership with Derry City Council. The total cost of the project was £164,851 with the department’s Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund contributing £139,851 and Derry City Council providing £25,000.
- The Shantallow Greencare project was delivered in partnership with Derry City Council. The total cost of the environmental Improvements was £138,433 with the Department’s Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund contributing £113,433 and Derry City Council providing £25,000.
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