Work has commenced on the development of a new play environment in Claudy Country Park at a cost of £250,000. This project is part financed by the European Union through the Peace II Programme and managed for the SEUPB by the Northern Ireland Rural Development Council (RDC); Derry City Council through the Parks Development Programme and the International Fund for Ireland (IFI).The project is managed by Derry City Council on behalf of John Mitchell GAC. It is supported by Rural Area Partnership in Derry (RAPID) and Groundwork NI. This investment is part of the wider regeneration of the area to improve access and facilities at a district wide level. Welcoming this investment, the Mayor Alderman Drew Thompson said he was delighted that the scheme is now underway following two years of development and fundraising.“The provision of a new play environment for Claudy Village is a significant investment for the people of this area and symbolises the Councils and other funders commitment to the rural community. Claudy Country Park has benefited significantly from funding over the past number of years to provide enhanced recreational facilities for the whole community.”Speaking on behalf of the Rural Development Council, Board member Leslie Craig, commented: “As an organisation which is committed to supporting rural communities we are delighted to have been able to assist the John Mitchell GAC. We envisage that this project will provide opportunities for rural peace and reconciliation through the provision of amenities, which cater for both communities irrespective of background and providing opportunities for people to meet in a neutral environment. We are very heartened to see that the club had the foresight and confidence to put at the forefront of their objectives the creation of a space which would serve everyone.”John McDaid, International Fund for Ireland, Board Member commented: “We are committed to supporting projects such as the Claudy Play Project, which bring people together in a neutral and shared space, promoting reconciliation and ultimately the creation of a more integrated and stable society in Northern Ireland. We would like to congratulate all those involved and look forward to seeing the play facility open.”John Kelpie, City Engineer acknowledged the important role of the funders and the project team involved in progressing the initiative. “This is another example of a successful partnership between various organisations. This new play facility is sympathetic to the parkland and will bring added value to the local environment.”Vincent McCloskey Chairman of John Mitchell GAC said: “John Mitchells GAC would like to extend their thanks to Rural Development Council (RDC), the International Fund for Ireland (IFI), Derry City Council Parks Development Programme, RAPID and Groundwork NI for their support in Claudy Play Area and making this scheme a reality. The state of the art play facility will be an asset to the community of Claudy.”Jim McColgan, chairperson of RAPID said: "RAPID are delighted to be part of the overall strategic development of Claudy Country Park and the provision of the new play area will bring a much needed community facility to the area."A series of workshops and meetings with the public were facilitated by Groundwork NI over the past year to consult and engage with the local community. The new facility will be complete early this summer.

Click here to download press release: 27.50 Kb