Elections: Council need to invest in new play equipment at Belleeks play park

A Slieve Gullion Local Government Election candidate has said that Newry, Mourne and Down District Council needs to invest in new play equipment for  the play park in Belleeks village.

Sinn Féin Councillor Oonagh Magennis said “The council needs to prioritise investing in  new play equipment for Belleeks playpark. 

“Residents have been requesting an upgrade to this playpark for many years and have now been told that some play equipment has had to be removed for Health and Safety.

“While I praise the council workers moving to remove the outdated equipment before someone was hurt, it’s unacceptable that the council have allowed this situation to go on for so long."

Ms Magennis continued “It’s also extremely disappointing that in order to replace the equipment, the decision has to wait until the next AHC committee meeting after the local elections on 18th May to see if the budget is available to replace them.

“The very real pressure facing public services, including our councils, is one of the real consequences of the savage budget forced upon the north by the Tories. 

“As we come into the summer months it’s important that local families have facilities in place in their communities for children and young people to play in.

“Sinn Féin will press the council to do all they can to make money available for investing in  fit for purpose play facilities for Belleeks."