Playground in Cork town reopens with a new look and a new nickname after €300k makeover

The Carrigaline playground reopened to the public on Friday morning after a major facelift, much to the delight of the committee that oversaw the project. 

The €300,000 project was made possible through funding from Cork County Council, SECAD, private sponsorship, and fundraising led by the Carrigaline Playground Committee, which was formed in 2024 and has worked since to bring the project to completion.

In a post on its Facebook page this morning the committee proudly declared: We are open".

"After two and a half years of planning, fundraising, hard work, and incredible community support, we’re delighted to announce that our new playground is officially open" read the post.

"This project has been a true community effort, and we couldn’t have done it without everyone who contributed their time, donations, encouragement, and expertise along the way. Thank you to every volunteer, supporter, sponsor, and local family who believed in this vision.

"We can’t wait to see children laughing, playing, making memories, and enjoying this wonderful new space for years to come."

Nickname

The upgraded playground has already earned a local nickname, 'Pringle Park', thanks to distinctive Pringle-like decorative features on some of the play pieces.

Fine Gael councillor Jack White, chair of the Carrigaline Municipal District, said: “This project is a real example of what can be achieved when community, council, and local supporters pull together.

“I’m deeply grateful to everyone who gave time, resources, and patience to see this through," said Mr White

"Our committee chair, Roisine Connelly and our secretary Aimie Hodnett deserve particular credit. The vision and delivery of this simply would not have happened without them.

“They have led this project in an extraordinary way, showing ambition, positivity and determination all the way through. It has been a pleasure to work with them from the beginning.” 

Mr White also thanked theCork County Council, particularly Municipal District Officer Denise Kidney, sponsors Carrigaline Lions, his fellow public representatives and members of the public who supported the project.