Site secured for new playground in Cloughjordan

The Cloughjordan Community Development Association (CCDA) is delighted to announce a major milestone in its mission to develop a much-needed community playground.

The group has secured a 25-year lease on the Thomas MacDonagh Memorial Garden from Tipperary County Council, marking a significant step forward for the project.

Located opposite the Kilruane MacDonaghs GAA grounds, the Memorial Garden is a cherished local green space, popular for walks and safe outdoor play. The site’s natural setting offers an ideal environment for children to connect with nature while enjoying playtime.

The demand for a playground in Cloughjordan has been long-standing, dating back to the Cloughjordan Integrated Village Plan of 2006. With a growing population approaching 1,000 residents, two primary schools, and a busy crèche, Cloughjordan remains one of the few urban areas in the region without a dedicated playground facility open to the public.

Earlier this year, the CCDA submitted a strong application for LEADER funding, but unfortunately, the application was unsuccessful due to limited funds.

While this was a disappointing outcome, the committee remains undeterred and is actively exploring alternative funding sources to bring the project to life. Aligned with the Tipperary County Development Plan 2022–2028, which envisions an “inclusive and active” county, the CCDA has worked closely with playground design experts to create an inclusive playground concept. The proposed design features a wide range of equipment to accommodate children of all abilities. Highlights include wheelchair-accessible roundabouts, sensory play elements, and parent-and-baby swing options - ensuring that all children in the community can enjoy the new facility.

Importantly, the design preserves a significant portion of the Memorial Garden as a natural green space, supporting biodiversity and wildlife habitat while blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.With the design and costings now finalised, securing funding is the next critical step.

To help raise awareness and generate local support, the CCDA will host a Playground Family Fun Day in June. Attendees will have the opportunity to view 3D renderings of the proposed playground and learn more about the exciting plans for this transformative community project.

FURTHER DETAILS

For updates and event details, follow the Cloughjordan Community Development Association on Facebook: @cloughjordancommunitydevelopmentassociation.