Access for all children at Greenisland park

Conlon O'Rourke (8) and friends from Silverstream Primary School enjoying the new play area. INCT 22-794-CON

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Council, Councillor Billy Ashe was joined by school children and council colleagues at the celebration on Friday.

The park includes multiple climbing frames and swings and the equipment is suitable for all children between three and 12 years of age.

Councillor Ashe said: “I am very pleased to officially open this play park in Greenisland. This is something which will be very well used by the local residents.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Mayor, Councillor Billy Ashe and the 'Mad Hatter' enjoy a ride on the roundabout in the newly opened Greenisland Play Park. INCT 22-792-CON

“Mid and East Antrim Borough Council are delighted to be able to provide attractive, modern and all inclusive play facilities for children and young people.”

In December, campaigners called on Carrickfergus Borough Council (now part of MEA) to upgrade facilities in play parks to better suit the needs of children using wheelchairs.

It pointed out there was consultation over the Greenisland scheme as part of the Green Kids in Outer Space initiative in 2013-14 and the equipment was chosen in response to these needs.

This point was underlined by the first citizen in his comments to mark the opening.

Mr Ashe added: “Mid & East Antrim Borough Council recognises the importance of well-equipped, safe and attractive play areas for the development of the children of the borough.

“Physical activity and exercise are vitally important for a healthy lifestyle and I hope that this play area will be well-used by our children and young people to have fun outdoors.

“I am particularly pleased to see that children with disabilities have been fully considered from the start of this project.

“All the equipment complies with disability legislation and I welcome the inclusion of a wheelchair friendly roundabout and a special full body support swing seat.”