A ceremony has been held to mark the grand opening of Scarva's new state-of-the-art play park.

Found within the woodland surroundings of Scarva Park, Co Down, the new £250,000 facility is tailored for specific age groups, with areas for young children and toddlers, as well as more challenging play equipment for older children and teenagers.

It comprises of traditional pieces of equipment including swings, slides, and a roundabout but also more contemporary and inclusive pieces such as a wheelchair swing, wobbly bridge, lower-level trampoline, spinning bowl, plus sight and sound panels.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Paul Greenfield visited the site to officially declare the new play park open.

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Students from nearby Scarva Primary School joined the celebrations, having played a key role in the design and development of the new attraction. They helped shape plans by putting forward their own suggestions and ideas – many of which have been transformed from paper to reality.

"We've had such a brilliant time officially launching this fantastic new play park in Scarva – and the laughter and smiles of the local school children highlights to me what it's really all about," commented Lord Mayor Councillor Paul Greenfield

"As a council, we are committed to investing in facilities for young people of all abilities, and Scarva Play Park is no exception, with accessibility and inclusion placed right at its very core. The amazing new play facility is home to a fantastic range of innovative and inclusive play equipment, which will enable children of all abilities to play and learn together. Research is proving that play is such an important part of childhood – giving our children the opportunity to learn through play and physical activity in the great outdoors – and our council is delighted to support this."

This investment is part of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council's £4.75m Play Strategy, which will see a number of play parks across the borough refurbished, alongside its commitment to non-fixed play, which is crucial to child development.

Work at the new Scarva Play Park was carried out by Farrans and Garden Escapes, overseen by council officers.