Playground fundraising

A group which has been working for the last 4 years to get a community playground for Kilcullen has launched a fundraising drive to get the last €50,000 needed to bring the project to completion. Kilcullen Playground Committee worked through several proposals before finally getting agreement from the national school, Scoil Bhríde to lease land to the Council for the playground. In return, the project, which will cost in the region of €250,000 will improve road access and car parking facilities for the school and the adjoining Community Centre, through which people will access the playground. Tender documents for the playground are expected to be finalised by Council officials before Christmas, and the playground constructed during the Spring of 2010.

Committee members heard at a recent meeting there is anecdotal evidence that some families in the area can no longer afford to send their children to pre-school playgroups. The point was emphasised that it was, therefore, more urgent than ever that free community play facilities be put in place to give families an outlet.

The Committee is finalising a plan which will roll out various events and fundraising methods over the coming months. A dedicated bank account is being set up with Bank of Ireland, Kilcullen and anyone interested in helping with the fundraising or making a donation can contact the Committee at kilcullenplayground@gmail.com.

Orla O'Neill.