Carrigtwohill playground badly damaged in 'mindless' arson attack

Extensive damage caused to Carrigtwohill playground over the weekend was described as "mindless vandalism" by a local councillor who said it was a real kick in the teeth to the east Cork community.

Fine Gael councillor Anthony Barry told The Echo that the damage caused to the playground as a result of the attack included a piece of equipment which was destroyed, fencing that would need to be replaced as well a bench that had been installed as a memorial to a local woman who had given decades of service to the community. 

"It was a cracking little playground," said the East Cork representative. "I have had people on to me from Glounthane, Cobh and Midleton looking for small improvements to be done to it over the years so it wasn't just Carrigtwohill people who used it.

"It's the busiest time of the year for it - a day like today - it will be closed, I imagine, for a number of weeks as the damage was quite extensive."

Mr Barry estimated that the damage would cost a "five figure sum" to repair. 

The playground used to be in the East Cork village's carpark but was moved to the rear of the Community Centre before the pandemic, thanks in the main to a huge community effort which saw €50,000 being raised to relocate the facility. 

"It's a great location, near the all weather pitches and behind the community centre, we call it the Millennium Park."

Outdoor gym equipment for use by elderly people is also located on the site. 

Cork East Social Democrats TD Liam Quaide, who is based in Midleton, said the playground was used by people from all over the region as such facilities were poorly provided for elsewhere.

"I am shocked and saddened to see what appears to be extensive fire damage to Carrigtwohill playground," he said to The Echo. "This is a vital amenity for families in East Cork and it is important that it is restore for use as soon as possible and that the incident is thoroughly investigated."

Cork County Council, which is the responsible authority for the playground, has been asked for comment.