Councillor McShane backs Lisnagunagh play area plans

A report prepared by a Moyle Council officer for councillors said: ‘Further to previous reports when Council were informed that a request had been received from the pupils of Dunseverick Primary School for Council to consider creating a play park at the site of Gunagh Picnic Area, as Council are aware outline planning permission has been granted for this proposal.

‘Fortress Play has now prepared indicative costing and plan for the area based on what was placed at Turnarobert, Armoy. The indicative cost of 50,000 also includes wet pour safety surface, fencing and gates.

‘A new measure 3.4 Access to Basic Services for the Economy and Rural Population opened on 6th September through the Rural Development Programme to increase the attractiveness of rural areas through supporting the improvement of basic services. This includes the improvement of leisure activities and related small infrastructure.

‘The level of assistance for Community/Voluntary Groups is up to 50% of eligible costs which would require Council to put 25,000 match funding in 11/12 budgets.

‘The level of assistance for Councils is up to 75% of eligible costs which would require council to put 12,500.00 match funding in 11/12 budgets.

‘If Council consider this it would be financially better for Council to submit the application,’ said the report.

Council Chairperson, Independent councillor Price McConaghy, said the Council should back the scheme, saying they will never again be able to provide a play area for such a low cost to ratepayers.

He said people would be able to have picnics at the play area.

Councillor Paudie McShane said a play area in Ballintoy was very successful and he spoke in favour of the Lisnagunagh project, as did DUP councillor Robert McIlroy.

Sinn Fein councillor Oliver McMullan said Moyle Council should ensure every playground they are involved with has equipment suitable for people with disabilities.