COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

MOTION NO.7

MOTION: Councillor V. Casserly

"That this Lucan Area Committee call on the Chief Executive that he would request in the design, similar to Cork County Council, who received part funding from Dept of Children and Youth affairs, that we explore the possibility of the installation of a wheelchair swing in Griffeen Valley Regional Playground. Please find images attached. I feel this would be beneficial and a welcome addition to our community that would ensure greater enjoyment to all visitors of the park. Similarly in the design, to ensure sensory and inclusive play materials to be a fundamental aspect of the project going forward making our playgrounds more accessible to all."

REPORT:

The Council strives to ensure that all of our play facilities are Disabled friendly and that they have also included sensory features in them. Prior to commencing the 2014 – 2018 Play Space programme, the Council received advice on Universal Design and developed a short document that reflects this and is issued with each tender. This document contains information from the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design.  The Council also includes accessibility as a marking criteria in every new playground.  Items such as the double width slides, increased sensory play and free play opportunities are an outcome of this approach.  We are constantly developing our knowledge in this area but if there are any specific measures which we may not be aware of we are happy to consider them. 

In relation to the possibility of including a wheelchair swing in the Griffeen Valley project: this is being actively considered in the design.