A programme of works is set to begin imminently to bring a new £350,000 playpark to the people of Newtownstewart, Co Tyrone.

Derry City and Strabane District Council will deliver the facility on a site adjacent to Mourne Park and Mourne Walk. Contractor TD McKane & Son has signed on to build the playpark and will begin work this month with a view to reaching completion by autumn 2020. Structural engineering consultancy firm Taylor & Boyd will also help progress the scheme.

The new facilities are aimed at promoting social interaction and physical activity among children and young people in the area. The equipment will include a multi-unit with towers, climbing nets and slides, a wheelchair accessible ground-flush roundabout, swings with adapted inclusive swing seats, toddler swings, basket swings, ziplines and much more.

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Newtownstewart was identified by Derry and Strabane Rural Partnership as a strategic Village Renewal Project, with £202,865 in grant funding set aside for the new play park. The funding is part of the Rural Development Programme funded by DAERA, and identified through public consultation and the 'Cluster Village Plan'. Council is also contributing £125k to the new facilities through its Play Development Programme.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Michaela Boyle has thrown her full support behind the project.

"This is great news for the people of Newtownstewart and will bring significant benefits to the entire local community in terms of leisure and play provision," she said.

"This exciting project is also reflective of Council's ongoing commitment to support investment in parks and sports facilities throughout the City and District. The new development will also play a key role in promoting social interaction and physical activity among our children and young people."

Amanda McConomy, a local community representative from Newtownstewart, also welcomed news of the imminent works. "I'm delighted and really over the moon that works will be starting this month on the new play park," she added.

"Importantly, these state-of-the-art facilities will provide a safe play area for local children of all ages and abilities to enjoy. I've also no doubts that the new park will act as a focal point for children to play and forge new friendships – whilst also ensuring they remain healthy and active!"

(CM/JG)