Bundoran’s splendid new look €200k playground opens 

Last weekend’s weather, for the most part, made it perfect conditions for the new Bundoran playground overlooking the majestic waves of the Atlantic to get its baptism from babies and older children, located as it is, like its older offspring, beside Bundoran’s Waterworld.    

ABOVE:The new railings will ensure that younger children can be kept safely inside the new children's playground Photo: Michael McHugh

The first thing that you notice is that the playground located on Atlantic Way is enclosed. And although to a height that will not be a deterrent to most, it is in keeping with new playgrounds around the country and does not impact on its majestic setting, it has to be said..

The railings gives it a bit more substance and there are no traces of what was the previous playground. 

The most obvious and striking feature was the sheer volume of young people and their parents/ who were there over the weekend. 

Local County County Councillor Michael McMahon (SF) said that it was a huge boost for the youngsters of the area and visiting families. 

“While there will be of course an official opening the decision was made to allow it to be opened to families at the first opportunity,” he said.

ABOVE:The site of the old playground before works started in November Photo: Michael McHugh

“I have to say that it is a magnificent job and everyone, including the builders should be very pleased of what has been achieved in what was a relatively short turnaround from November.

“I am very happy to be associated with that playground as it is a great job, well done and done on time as well. It is also very well secured with a fence around it as well which was not the case with the old playground.

“What we will be looking for now is something for the wee playground in the West End but unfortunately none of the stock that had been in the old playground could be utilised as it was no longer fit for purpose.   

“This is one of the playgrounds in the country that is used very, very frequently by locals and tourists alike. The fact that it is now a state of the art playground and free as well makes it even more ambitious and attractive.”
He went on to say that the new railings were of a standard height in keeping with modern criteria and there was no justification in making it “a Long Kesh job”.
“It prevents small children from running out of the playground and you would lose the scope and beauty of its location by making the railings any higher,” he added.

ABOVE: The new playground caters for children from 2-6 years and from 6-12 years Photo: Michael McHugh

“It’s one of the many things that I hope Bundoran will have to offer locals and visitors by the summer and the next item will be to get the outdoor dining area in the West End up and running. The other priority will be the opening up of the greenway cycling and walking route between Bundoran and Ballyshannon."

ABOVE: A closer view of the new ground area that is child friendly Photo: Michael McHugh

The works at the new playground were carried out by contractors Hawthorn Heights Ltd. acting on behalf of Donegal County Council and the Community Recognition Fund.