'I would not be comfortable taking children to this Kildare playground'

A playground at a residential area has been criticised by the local mayor as being in a "terrible state.”

And, at a Naas Municipal District committee meeting, Cllr Bill Clear challenged his fellow councillors to visit it to see if they think it is suitable for children.

He described Castle Farm, off Newbridge Road, Naas, as “an excellent place” and a “beautiful estate” but he said he would not be comfortable taking children to the playground there.

“It’s like a derelict site in the middle of an estate.”

Cllr Seamie Moore said Kildare County Council effectively facilitates developers to sell homes when all of the ancillary work in an estate is not completed.

He said the council facilitates the sale once it has collected the development levies due by the developer to it.

Cllr Moore said all works in a residential area, including roads and landscaping, should be done before the properties are allowed to be sold.

KCC engineer Liam McNeela said the playground was built under planning permission and although it is completed “it remains closed to allow for establishment of the planting/landscaping associated with the playground area.”

He said KCC could “not look for more” than was outlined in the planning permission.

He said KCC is working towards the end of the process of taking the area in charge.

Mr McNeela added: “The overall development including the playground will be reviewed in line with the granted planning permission and having consideration to submissions received during the consultation period.”

He said any additional works required will be directed to the developer before the taking in charge is completed.

He said the issue is not the playground because the developer has fulfilled the planning permission obligation - but the lack of alternative equipment for the playground.