New games area and playground opens in Maudlintown

By Dan Walsh

Healthy Wexford and Wexford County Council, supported by the Healthy Ireland Fund, have added a new games area and playground markings in Maudlintown, Wexford town, to make the green space more playful for everyone.

Replacing an obsolete piece of playground equipment, the development, which was led by the Insurance Risk Management team at Wexford County Council and developed in consultation with Southend Family Resource centre, aims to encourage greater social connection and physical activity, through intergenerational play opportunities and play for all.

The new equipment includes a Foosball Table, a Racing Game Panel, and a Connect Four Panel.  This is complemented by new playground markings allowing for a range of throwing games that can be adapted by age.  

Mayor of Wexford Cllr Gary Laffan said; “I welcome these playful additions as it is recognised that outdoor spaces such as parks and playgrounds are important sites for community integration, belonging, and health and wellbeing.”

Cllr Leonard Kelly, Chair of the Healthy County Committee added; “The addition of these materials makes the space intergenerational, allowing for play within and across ages and increases fee-free social connection opportunities in the area.”

Siobhain Hayden of Southend Family Resource Centre, who was involved in the consultation phase, said; “With the addition of both the equipment and the playground markings we see so many opportunities for those we work with in the centre.  While obviously a great addition for the youth, this space also provides an opportunity for us to engage our men’s and women’s groups in a different way and allows the community to have a space that is truly for all.”

Southend Family Resource Centre will hold both Foosball table balls and mini beanbags which can be borrowed for use during the centre opening hours.