Work begins on Waterford’s first dedicated ‘Teenage Hangout Space'
An all weather teenage hangout space will form a key part of the much anticipated project
Waterford City and County Council has announced that works on Carrickphierish Recreation Park have gotten underway.
The new development which includes the construction of a new playground, multi-use games area, landscaping, footpaths and lighting is expected to be completed and open to the public by the end of 2026.
The project is being jointly funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, and Waterford City and County Council.
The Community Recognition Fund have donated €450,000 to the project, and the Making Spaces for and with Teenagers Initiative have provided a further €100,000 for the works.
“A key feature of the development will be Waterford’s first dedicated ‘Teenage Hangout Space’, providing young people with a safe, sheltered area that can be used in all weather conditions. The space has been designed with direct input from teenagers in the local community and will include informal seating, music speaker pods and features that will facilitate parkour movements.
“The facility aims to provide young people with a welcoming space to socialise, be active and spend time outdoors,” a council spokesperson explained.
Paul Johnston, Senior Engineer with Waterford City and County Council noted how “this park has been shaped by the input of the local community, which will not only have a positive impact on health and well-being, but will also enhance the area for its growing population”.
“The new facilities in the park are designed to encourage active lifestyles and community engagement in a safe, inclusive outdoor environment,” he added.
Earlier this year, Minister for Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, planted a commemorative tree at the site and announced the objectives of the Community Action Plan for Waterford City’s Northwest suburbs.
According to the local authority, “the investment in Carrickphierish Recreation Park forms part of wider efforts to enhance community facilities and support quality of life in the city’s growing Northwest Suburbs”.