Progress on long-awaited revamp for playground at the Lough

Social Democrat councillor for Cork City South Central, Cllr Niamh O'Connor, has welcomed significant progress towards the long-awaited redevelopment of the playground at The Lough.

Cllr O'Connor first brought a motion before Cork City Council in March 2025 after engaging with local Katie O'Regan and other parents from the Lough area who highlighted the need for a modern, inclusive playground. The motion was referred to the Local Area Committee.

"Initially, I was told that the playground was in a satisfactory condition," said Cllr O'Connor.

"When you look at the figures, they're pretty stark. The Lough playground has received less than one per cent of the total investment made in playgrounds across Cork City over the last ten years. In my opinion, that's simply unacceptable."

Council officials subsequently confirmed that it would cost approximately €147,500 to revamp and extend the playground, with the addition of a safety fence estimated to cost between €12,500 and €20,000.

Following further engagement with Cork City Council, Cllr O'Connor has now been informed that the project is due to go out to tender.

"This is hugely welcome news, and I want to acknowledge the support and constructive engagement of Council staff throughout this process."

Cllr O'Connor said the redevelopment now presents an opportunity to deliver a playground that meets the needs of local families for many years to come.

“Children in The Lough and the surrounding communities are just as deserving of investment in their playground as children anywhere else in the city."

“The time is long overdue for a new, modern and inclusive playground that reflects the needs of our community. That's especially important because we're seeing more and more young families choosing to live in the area, and our public amenities need to keep pace with that growth."

Cllr O'Connor also paid tribute to the local campaign that helped bring the project forward.

"Huge credit has to go to Katie O'Regan, who has been a relentless advocate for local parents and children. Her determination to keep this issue on the agenda has been instrumental in getting us to this point. I'm hopeful we will now see the project progress quickly so that local families can finally enjoy the high-quality playground they have been waiting for."

Katie O'Regan of The Lough Playground Project said:

"The Lough Playground Project is a community led initiative raising some much-needed funds to help give the Lough a full new playground.

“We are working to create a safer, more inclusive and exciting play space for children and families, and we are reaching out to the public and businesses for support.

“The Lough is a Cork landmark and has been neglected for quite some time and deserves a new amazing playground fit for purpose.” The group aim to install playground equipment made of eco-friendly wood materials for sustainability as well as to compliment the Lough wildlife.

To donate to the new playground, search 'Upgrade The Lough Playground' on gofundme.com.