Repairs to a play park in Antrim that was damaged in an arson attack will cost almost £100,000.
A report presented to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Operations Committee this week said an insurance payment of £97,000 has been received to replace damaged equipment at Steeple Play Park.
New surfacing will also be installed, and two multi-use games areas re-sprayed and re-lined, following an arson attack at the site in February 2023.
Councillors were told work has commenced at the Stiles Way site and is expected to be completed by October.
Meanwhile, councillors were also told a contractor has been appointed for the construction of a new play park at City of Belfast Playing Fields in Mallusk, and it is anticipated that this will commence this autumn pending land transfer from Belfast City Council.
Last year, a “comprehensive” audit of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s playgrounds was carried out covering the condition of every piece of equipment, surface, and items such as fencing and gates. Each play park was categorised and ranked based on condition and cost of works needed.
General repairs identified in the audit are currently being addressed including tasks such as power washing and the replacement of items such as fencing and bins.
