Navan playground set for upgrade as €20,000 funding approved
A park in Navan is set to receive a €20,000 funding boost to upgrade its playground facilities under a national scheme aimed at improving access to play and recreation spaces across the country.
Blackwater Park in Navan will benefit from the investment following an announcement by Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley as part of this year’s Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation.
A total of €600,000 has been allocated to 30 local authorities nationwide under the programme, which supports both upgrades to existing facilities and the development of new play areas.
In Navan, the €20,278 awarded will be used to install new play equipment at the Blackwater Park playground.
The scheme is intended to improve access to quality recreational spaces in local communities, with a particular focus this year on inclusion and accessibility for children with a range of needs.
Projects supported under the programme include wheelchair-accessible seesaws, sensory play equipment, upgraded accessibility features alongside biodiversity planting, level-access play equipment, and dedicated teen spaces.
Local authorities were invited to apply for funding, with each council permitted to nominate one project. Funding is capped at €22,000 per project and requires a minimum 25pc contribution in matched funding from the relevant local authority.
Minister Foley said the investments reflect “our strong commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to play, explore, and thrive in safe and inspiring environments.”
She added: “We look forward to working closely with each local authority to deliver these projects that will enhance wellbeing, promote active lifestyles, and strengthen community connections across the country.”
Meanwhile Fine Gael councillor John Duffy said: “I am looking forward to the park continuing to develop over the next few months and years.”