€58,000 boost for inclusive play facility at Mayo National School
CLÁR investment creates wheelchair-accessible play and learning space, with community access planned
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary has opened a new inclusive outdoor play and learning facility at Cnoc na nÓg, Straide National School this week.
The facility was developed with €58,045 in CLÁR funding and is designed to allow children of all abilities to play, learn and explore together.
“CLÁR funding is used to enhance communities, and Cnoc na nÓg is a shining example of a vision coming to life,” Minister Calleary said.
The opening was attended by TD Keira Keogh, councillors Donna Sheridan, Michael Kilcoyne, Blackie Gavin and Ger Deere, Pauline Brennan Fahey of Mayo County Council, and Joe Daly of Castlebar Credit Union.
School principal Caithríona Murrihy, teachers Breege Staunton and Laura Finnerty, Board of Management chairperson Máire Mulroy, Fr Stephen O’Mahony, Cnoc na nÓg room leader Roser Sanchez Escarra and AIM support worker Rebecca King were also present, along with children, families and community members.
Designed for inclusion
Developed according to Universal Design principles, the facility includes wheelchair-accessible paths and ramps, non-slip surfaces, accessible picnic tables, sensory areas and adapted play equipment.
Features include a sensory garden with musical chimes, visual spinners and a water feature, as well as a sensory tunnel, train play area, outdoor storytelling chair and accessible seating.
Raised planters, insect hotels and biodiversity features encourage nature-based learning.
The facility is designed to support children’s physical, emotional, social and cognitive development while enabling them to play alongside their peers.
The facility will be available to the public after 5.40pm on weekdays and at weekends, providing an inclusive recreational space for families in Straide and surrounding areas.
The shared-use arrangement is intended to support children with disabilities or additional needs and give families a place to connect.
Strong support from the community
The project was delivered with support from Straide National School, its Board of Management, staff, families and the wider community.
Gaughan Construction and Kencas Engineering worked on the development, while Murrays Plastics adapted equipment to make it wheelchair-accessible.
Castlebar Credit Union contributed €15,000 through a community funding grant towards an accessible musical garden.
Principal Caithríona Murrihy said the project reflected the school’s commitment to inclusion.
“Every child deserves a place to play, every child deserves the opportunity to participate, and every child deserves to belong,” she said.
The new facility provides a lasting investment in inclusion, outdoor learning and community life in Straide.