NMD Council Makes Major Playpark Investment

May 2, 2026
Olivia
Investments
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Council Continues Major Investment in Play Parks Across the District

Newry Mourne and Down District Council is continuing with its investment programme to refurbish and enhance play parks across the district, with a series of major upgrades now completed as part of its ongoing Play Strategy 2024–2029.

The most recent phase of works has delivered improved facilities at Bishopscourt in Ballyhornan, Derrybeg in Newry and Ardross and Rathview in Crossmaglen, providing modern, inclusive and accessible play spaces for local communities.

(l-r Director of Active and Healthy Communities, NMDDC, Andrew Patterson; Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell; Cllr Jill Truesdale and Declan Crilly, Head of Outdoor Leisure at the official opening of Islands Park Play Park in Newcastle. (Photos courtesy of NMDDC).

These improvements build on earlier completed projects at Conway Park in Mullaghbawn, Village Green in Belleeks, Granite View in Saval, Scrogg Road in Kilkeel and Seaview in Ardglass, which were delivered in previous phases of the programme.

Together, these investments form part of the Council’s commitment to upgrading 16 play parks across the district, ensuring high-quality, safe and engaging outdoor spaces for children and families.

(l-r) Head of Outdoor Leisure, Declan Crilly, Outdoor Leisure Officer Damian Morgan, Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell, Cllr Aurla King and Director of Active and Healthy Communities, Andrew Patterson, at Bishop’s Gate play park at Ballyhornan.

The upgraded parks feature a wide range of modern play equipment designed to support physical activity, creativity and social interaction. Each site has been developed as a barrier-free and inclusive environment, enabling children of all abilities to play together and enjoy shared outdoor experiences.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, said: “We are delighted to see these upgraded play parks now open to the public.

(l-r) Marking the official opening of Rathview playpark in Crossmaglen is Andrew Patterson, Director of Active and Healthy Communities, NMDDC, Cllr Mickey Larkin, Cllr Martin Hearty and Cllr Pete Byrne.

(l-r) Conor Haughey, Assistant Director, Healthy Living, NMDDC; Gerard McKeever, NMDDC Outdoor Leisure Officer; Cllr Aidan Mallon; NMDDC Vice Chairperson Cllr Geraldine Kearns, Andrew Patterson, Director of Active and Healthy Communities and Declan Crilly, Head of Outdoor Leisure, at the recently refurbished playpark in Derrybeg, Newry.

“This investment demonstrates our ongoing commitment to improving facilities that support the health and well-being of residents across our district.

“By working closely with local communities, we have delivered high-quality, accessible play spaces that meet local needs and will provide long-lasting benefits for families for years to come.”

(l-r) Ava Boyle (6), Daisy O’Neill (6) and Sadie O’Neill (9) enjoying the new play features at Rathview Play Park.

The Council’s Play Strategy 2024–2029 recognises the importance of play as a fundamental part of children’s development, supporting physical, social and emotional wellbeing while also providing opportunities for enjoyment and creativity.

This ongoing programme is being delivered in line with the strategy, which targets improvements based on identified need, accessibility and play value.