Maudlintown Becomes More Playful with New Playground Additions to Encourage Play and Connection

Maudlintown is getting a little more playful with the addition of new games and playground features, thanks to a collaboration between Healthy Wexford, Wexford County Council and the Healthy Ireland Fund. The project, which replaced outdated playground equipment, aims to transform the green space into a hub for physical activity, social connection and intergenerational play for all members of the community. The newly installed features include a Foosball table, Racing Game panel and a Connect Four panel, along with fresh playground markings for a variety of age-appropriate throwing games. This initiative, developed in consultation with Southend Family Resource Centre, provides a space that encourages outdoor play for people of all ages and abilities. Mayor of Wexford, Cllr. Gary Laffan, praised the new additions, highlighting the importance of parks and playgrounds in fostering community integration and promoting health and wellbeing. Cllr. Leonard Kelly, Chair of the Healthy County Committee, echoed this sentiment, noting that the project creates a truly intergenerational space for social connection without any cost to residents. Siobhain Hayden from Southend Family Resource Centre, who played a key role in the consultation process, shared her enthusiasm for the new space. "The addition of these features not only benefits young people, but also offers a fresh opportunity for our men's and women's groups to engage with the community in a different way," she said. The Southend Family Resource Centre will offer Foosball balls and mini beanbags for borrowing during opening hours, further enhancing the space’s accessibility for everyone. With these new additions, Maudlintown's green area is set to become a dynamic space for play, connection and community bonding, benefiting citizens of all ages. Zack Goldsmith (Wexford County Council), Annette Dupuy (Wexford County Council), Cllr Catherine Walsh, Cllr Leonard Kelly (Chairman Healthy Ireland), Siobhan Hayden (Southend Family Resource Centre), Mayor Cllr Garry Laffan pictured with local residents enjoying a game during the promotion of the Maudlintown Playful Spaces. Pic: Jim Campbell