COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

south dublin county council crest

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, October 10, 2011

MOTION NO. 11

MOTION: Councillor D. Looney

To ask the Manager to report on the scope of support, in terms of finances, land and other resources, under the Play Policy and other Council policies for small-scale playgrounds and/or MUGA's to be provided by community organisations in the South Dublin area, and to make a statement on the matter.

REPORT:

South Dublin County Council provides recreational facilities and amenities, primarily in the public park and open space network, throughout the county. Recreational amenities and facilities are also provided through the Council's network of community and sports and leisure centres and also in some of the Council's housing schemes. 

While the Council is aware that some of the smaller local authorities deliver such facilities by way of direct financial supports and provision of land to local community groups, this is not a model that is followed in South Dublin where the expertise and resources are available in house to design, plan, procure, construct and maintain such facilities. It should also be noted that the ongoing public liability for these facilities, is carried by the Council rather than the local community. 

The Council's Play Policy 2006 - 2009, Appendix 1 included general guidance on best practice in providing a playground / play area. It was not and was never intended to be a scheme for delivery of playgrounds and no financial provision was assigned for this purpose. It is the Council's intention to continue to deliver playgrounds, MUGA's (Multi Use Games Areas) and other recreational facilities in a strategic manner throughout the county having regard to the availability of the necessary finances and resources to deliver them. The provision of MUGAs have been possible through funding from RAPID, DOECLG and Sports Capital programmes.

It is considered that the current model of delivery has served the residents and communities of South Dublin well and has reliably delivered a range of quality facilities for children of all ages and will continue to source and avail of funding programmes when possible.