Write a commentA decision was made at last nights Active and Healthy Communities Meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down Council to accept the reccomendations of the consolidation report from Playboard NI concerning Barcroft and Ramond McCreesh playparks but additionally to consult with the people in the area about a bigger playground plan. The agenda item was proposed by Cllr Liz Kimmins and seconded by Cllr John Trainor.
The Key Issues
1: The play strategy 2017-2022 analysis saw Barcroft having a higher play value score than Raymond McCreesh Play Park. In order to increase a singular high value play facility for the area, to reach the maximum play value with a minimum resource expenditure it could be seen that Barcroft Park should be the park upgraded.
2: As part of a 3 stage consultation it was found the majority would favour upgrading Raymond McCreesh Play Park.
3: The Planning Committee in March agreed with Planning Dept reccomendations to approve a planning application for lands at Watsons Road/ Dorans Hill for a proposed residential housing development of 200 houses with a designated play area.
Councillor Kimmins has requested that the Council explores the possibility of sourcing alternative sites for an upgraded fixed play facility "My Party is committed to the provision of high quality, well designed and up to date recreational and Play facilities throughout the Council area.
"The consultation regarding the consolidation of the two parks is part of our council’s Play Strategy and it has highlighted that some of those involved in the process had raised the possibility of looking at alternative sites for a Play Park.
"I believe this is an option that needs to be explored before any final conclusions are presented to Council.
"The recent granting of planning permission for additional development at the top of Barcroft should also be factored into any final report."
Cllr Kimmins added that "It is important that the local community can give consideration to all the available options before reaching a final decision".
