The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Brian Bloomfield MBE and the Chairman of the Council’s Chairman of Leisure & Community Development Committee, Councillor Tim Morrow with children from Largymore Primary School trying out the newly revamped Barbour Play Park.

The refurbished facilities at Barbour Play Park are set to make playtime a whole lot more fun for local children following a total investment of £76,000 from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

School children from Largymore Primary School gave the park their seal of approval recently, when the park was officially reopened by The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Brian Bloomfield MBE and the Chairman of the Council’s Chairman of Leisure & Community Development Committee, Councillor Tim Morrow.

Speaking at the opening, Councillor Morrow said: “The investment in the play park within Barbour Playing Fields has increased the level of play provision for local families as well as improving the experience for children with mobility issues. The Council promotes healthier lifestyles for all ages and providing residents with the resources to achieve this is essential. The old playground at Barbour Playing Fields was last replaced in 1997 so this upgrade will certainly enhance the community.”

“This play park is the first to feature the new rebranded Play Park signage featuring a fun and colourful scene of children enjoying play facilities. This new signage will be rolled out across the Council’s parks over the coming months. I would also like to acknowledge the contractors ‘Play and Leisure Services’ for the excellent work they carried out and thank the Director Mr Ronnie McKee and playground designer Mr David Harvey for attending the official opening.”

The Mayor, who has a background in education, was delighted with the upgraded facilities: “With so many indoor activities and the rising use of technology it is so important to have a go-to place like this where children can socialise and exercise at the same time. There are so many benefits to children playing outdoors, including helping their learning abilities, creativity, health, social skills and independence. Thank you to teachers and children of Largymore Primary School for coming along and testing out the new look equipment.”

The work at the Barbour Play Park also included an upgrade to the vehicle entrance on the Ballynahinch Road, improving access to the playing fields.

The Council would like to remind residents to help keep the park clean and litter free so it can be enjoyed by everyone.

Barbour Play Park is open 9am – 5pm from 1st October – 31st March.