COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF RATHFARNHAM / TEMPLEOGUE / FIRHOUSE / BOHERNABREENA AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, January 09, 2024

MOTION NO.5

MOTION: Councillor L. Hagin Meade

That this area committee recognises that playgrounds are spaces used by children's caregivers, and with this in mind, will investigate and invest in facilities for caregivers who are visiting the playground with children in their care.

REPORT:

SDCC have completed a natural playspace programme across the county, which has won accolades for its inclusive nature and its focus on delivering play for children close to where they live.

These spaces are purposely designed for children, and adults are only permitted to use SDCC play areas for the purpose of supervising the children in their care.  Safety is a primary consideration in the design of playgrounds and it is important that any equipment placed in playgrounds is designed for use by children. The EU Standard for this equipment in BS:EN 1176.  It is not recommended to have adult exercise equipment or other items not complying with the relevant play equipment safety standard within or close to playgrounds as children will be attracted to play on it. Seating is provided in playgrounds to facilitate caregivers but it is not planned to include any additional facilities for adults in playgrounds.