Phase two works start on St Columb's play park

This new facility will replace the existing old play area with a new state of the art facility catering for children up to 8 years old. The Derry City Council led project will cost in the region of 250,000. Council has also secured funding assistance from the OFMDFM under their Exemplar Play Programme. Last year phase one of this project, was officially launched in the summer attracting some 2900 visitors. Welcoming the commencement of phase two of the project, the Mayor Paul Fleming said he was delighted that Council had identified the provision of play areas as a key priority and invested heavily in providing a fun environment for children to play in across the City Council area. "Phase one of this play environment is widely used and appreciated by the local community and I am delighted that the second phase of the project, which will cater for children aged under eight years, will be complete for the summer months," he commented. The Adventure Play Environment at St Columb's Park is a unique outdoor facility in a beautiful natural setting where children are encouraged to enjoy a wide range of play experiences including climbing and experiencing the thrill of zip lines and rope swings. John Kelpie, City Engineer with Derry City Council, stated that "over the past few years Derry City Council has invested heavily in play provision across the Council area. "Council recognises the importance of providing managed facilities where children and their families can play in a safe, clean and accessible environment. "The completion of phase two of this unique play facility is scheduled this summer and will build on the success of Phase 1."