32-playground bonanza for children

THOUSANDS of children are to benefit from a multi-million euro plan to build 32 playgrounds throughout the country, it was announced yesterday.

Play areas will be established or refurbished in 25 counties by the local authorities at a cost of €2 million.

Minister of State for Children Brian Lenihan said the grants, which ranged from €17,000 to €140,000, would provide 50% of the funds to city and county councils who sent in plans for their amenities. “The proposed playgrounds vary in size from smaller local playgrounds which will serve towns and villages, to much larger regional playgrounds that will be located in areas that have greater numbers of children and young people.”