Work to start on long overdue Darkley play park

Work on a new play park in Darkley, Co Armagh, is due to begin before the end of July, it has been revealed.

The news has been welcomed by two local councillors, who will say it will be a huge and welcome development for the area, often dubbed ‘the forgotten village’.

Sinn Féin councillor Mary Doyle has said she is delighted with the news that Darkley is to get its long awaited play facility.

Speaking following the announcement, Councillor Doyle said: “I first met council officials on the issue of the lack of a play area for Darkley approximately seven years ago.  Since then there have been many, many meetings and a lot of behind the scenes activity to bring this project forward.

“I am therefore delighted that the location issue has been resolved and that the new play park will be situated at Darkley Primary School.  I think that this will be a fantastic location as the local kids will have access during school hours which will no doubt enhance the user levels of the park while also ensuring access for the whole community.”

Councillor Doyle also confirmed that the park should be completed before the next school year.

“Work is scheduled to begin in July and the park should be operational by the end of August.  I know it would have been great to have the facility over the summer holidays but I’m sure local people will not mind a two month wait when they know the play park is on its way.

“This will be a major asset to Darkley and at last the kids of this area and their parents will have a first class play park on their doorstep.  I can’t wait to see the finished article and I am proud to have worked on bringing this project to fruition.

“I will continue to work on behalf of all of the people of Darkely and the wider Cusher area.”

SDLP Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon has also welcomed confirmation that works are to begin on the new dual use play park at Darkley Primary School during July and works are expected to be complete in time for the school reopening in September.