Funding of €500,000 has officially been awarded for the development and upgrading of 28 playgrounds and play areas around Ireland.

Provided through the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation, many of the projects funded under this year's scheme give particular focus to inclusion and access.

The funds will help to ensure that children with a diverse range of needs can avail of the benefits of high-quality play facilities alongside their peers. Some of these funded projects include the installation of upgraded accessibility features, inclusive sensory playground equipment and inclusive play space, as well as wheelchair-accessible seesaws.

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Announcing the funding allocation of this year's scheme, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, said: "I am delighted to announce this capital funding that will directly benefit families and children in every corner of Ireland. These grants will enable city and county councils to create and upgrade playgrounds, making them more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone."

The scheme offers maximum funding of up to €20,000 per project and councils also had to provide matching funding of at least 25 percent of the cost of the project.