Northern Ireland Communities Minister Margaret Ritchie has allocated £233,000 for play parks at Mount Crescent, and Marian Park in Downpatrick.

The projects are to be brought forward at a cost of over £258,000, made possible by a grant of over £233,000 provided by the Minister through the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund, with the balance being provided by Down District Council.

The council will also manage the projects and be responsible for the future maintenance and upkeep of the play parks upon completion. Clanmil Housing Association has provided the land for the Bridge Street/Mount Crescent play ground.

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Minister Ritchie said: "I am very happy to provide the funding for these projects and I hope they will be a great source of fun and enjoyment for families and young people in the area. They will provide much needed facilities for young children and families in the area and will help to enhance the local environment."

The work, which involves the provision of a brand new facility at Bridge Street/Mount Crescent and the upgrading and improvement of the existing facility at Marian Park, is due to commence within the next few weeks.

Chairman of Down District Council, Councillor Colin McGrath said: "Down District Council is very pleased to be working closely with local residents, with the Minister and her department, and with other relevant agencies to deliver these much needed new facilities in our area."

(PR/JM)