Councillor Denis O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach at Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and Frank Curran, Chief Executive officially opened the eagerly anticipated adventure play space at Blackrock Park. This new play space promises a unique and exciting experience for visitors of all ages, featuring a stunning brent goose structure that will inspire imaginative play, adventure, and movement.
Councillor Denis O’Callaghan. Cathaoirleach at Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, said, “we are thrilled to unveil the new adventure playground at Blackrock Park. This innovative play space, complete with the captivating brent goose structure, represents a significant addition to our community and will provide endless hours of fun, exploration, and imagination for visitors of all ages.”
The adventure playground’s design and layout has raised areas for observation and forms an escape for individuals who may become overstimulated. The inclusion of these elements aims to provide a holistic and engaging experience for every visitor.
Frank Curran, Chief Executive, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said, “the development of this adventure playground marks a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalisation of Blackrock Park. Based on the Blackrock Park Masterplan, the park has undergone a comprehensive renovation in recent years to enhance its offerings and provide a vibrant and engaging space for the community to enjoy.”
The adventure playground is designed to cater to a wide range of needs and abilities. In addition to the remarkable giant goose structure, it includes a dedicated neurodivergent space and a toddler area. One of the main highlights of the adventure playground is the manipulation of the ground through careful earthworks. Rolling and meandering undulations have been artfully integrated, seamlessly weaving through the existing trees to create a natural and captivating play space. These mounds and depressions aim to stimulate engagement and exploration among park visitors.
The toddler area is enclosed and gated, providing a secure play environment for children aged 0 to 5. It includes age-appropriate play elements and a sand play feature without raised edges or lips, ensuring inclusivity for all children, including wheelchair users. In addition, there are various natural play elements that support sensory engagement, learning, and cater to invisible disabilities. These elements include boulders and large rocks, tree trunks, mud baths, sandpits, bamboo walks, meadows, bark mulch paths and willow tunnels, Musical instruments are also available to provide a multi-sensory experience.
With ongoing renovations and improvements, the 150-year-old park offers a range of recreational facilities for the community including picnic areas and now a state-of-the-art adventure play space. Further works include restoration of historic steps, new seating, and extensive planting at Phoenix Terrace.
