Mad Hatters party to celebrate new playground

GORT’S new playground opens this weekend with special celebrations including a Mad Hatters party on Saturday.

It is seven years since the idea of building a playground in the town surfaced and after a long, hard road, the facility will officially open at the weekend.

The playground is on the corner of the Ennis Road and Circular Road, across from the Lady Gregory Hotel and boasts a huge variety of equipment for all users from toddlers up to adults. The equipment offers a range of fun and healthy games and activities. There is also a picnic area where friends and families can meet and mingle.

The tender was won by Wicksteed Playscapes and the Playground Company had to choose from eight competitive submissions.

Chairperson for the Playground Company, Louise Duffy said Wicksteed “delivered on quality and play value and she is very happy with their work”. Other members that have worked hard to get this project moving are treasurer Sandra Farrell, secretary Rachelle Cunniffe, PRO Martin Aherne, Brendan Quinn, Pat Regan, technical co-ordinator Eddie Reilly and Suzanne Hayes O’Connor.

The total cost of the play area was in excess of €200,000, from site acquisition right through to the finished product. The group received grant aid, donations and fundraisers were also held.

This Saturday gives everyone who contributed to the fundraising and the completion of the playground the chance to enjoy and admire the fruits of their labour.

The playground opens at 2pm with a balloon release, followed by treats from the Café Gallery, The Lady Gregory Hotel and Ann Marie Smullen. A selection of art will be displayed from students of the Art Box.