Contractor appointed for £2.3million upgrade of playparks across Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough
A major programme of works to upgrade playpark facilities across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Borough, has taken another significant step forward with the appointment of the main contractor.
Lord Mayor, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, along with council officers, has met with Richard Stuart from Garden Escapes Ltd who will deliver the extensive £2.3million investment from the council.
The programme will see the refurbishment of 12 playparks and development of five new playparks over the next two years.
Cllr O’Dowd described the major project as “a very important investment by the council”, adding that it “will deliver real and tangible benefits” to children and young families right across the ABC borough.
"Play is essential to children’s development and I am delighted that the council is making this major commitment to the next generation. Our children are our future and our playparks are vital community spaces that must be cherished,” the Lord Mayor said.
It is expected that work will start later this year at the first three playparks included on the programme; the Abercorn Park and Pinebank playparks in Craigavon and the Huntly playpark in Banbridge.
The council said that over the coming weeks, it will engage directly with local communities and stakeholders on the upgrade plans for each of the playparks.
The Capital Play Development Programme is expected to be completed over a two-year period from 2026-2028.
The council said further details on the upgrade of the various playparks will be released as the programme of works progresses.