Our strategy is the development & sustainability of the island, to promote it as an attractive place to live and to visit. One strand of this approach is the provision of an outdoor recreation area for all ages. 

Whilst we were successful in our application to CLÁR Programme, for which we are very grateful to the Dept of Community & Rural Development & former Minister Michael Ring T.D. for the award of €50,000 , the overall cost is much greater than this. The current project contract is almost €75,000, but this does not include the provision of secure perimeter fencing at the rear of the site and some other expenses, so we are hoping to raise some extra funds to ensure the playground is completed to a very safe standard.

We are very grateful to some of our local Westport-Belmullet Municipal District county councillors, who have already committed to individual contributions,  this combined with the CLÁR Programme funding we are currently at €60,000. Our overall target is €80,000

Some notes on the importance of playgrounds & recreational spaces:

Playgrounds can provide different opportunities to stimulate physical development for children of all ages, for example slides and swings promote balance and coordination, climbing frames strengthen their muscles, and tactile panels help with hand-eye skills. Playgrounds also provide the opportunity for children to practice skills that will ultimately play a role in adult competencies such as the ability to collaborate with others, develop decision making skills, and successfully take on leadership roles, persevere in the face of distractions, and generate creative ideas.