On Monday 27th May 2025, the newly refurbished Baltinglass Community Park was officially opened by Cathoirleach Cllr. Paul O’Brien in the presence of Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass Municipal District Patsy Glennon.
The park recently underwent a significant refurbishment, which included the creation of a new 1.5 km tarmacked looped walking track around its perimeter, a new playground, a basketball court, outdoor tech ball and table tennis tables, as well as tree and hedge planting.
The work in the park was carried out in different stages, with funding allocated from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Department of Sports. The total investment in the park amounted to approximately €700,000.
The Department of Rural and Community Development provided:
- €425,000 from Community Recognition Fund
- €225,000 from Rural Regeneration and Development Fund
Additionally, the Participation Nation Fund, provided by the Department of Sports, contributed €50,000.
The upgrade works in the park were executed and supervised by Baltinglass Municipal District staff, under the guidance of District Engineer Dermot Graham and General Services Supervisor Shamy O’Halloran and his team. Contributions to the project were made by the Baltinglass District Forum and Baltinglass Tidy Towns. This collaborative approach has greatly contributed to the project's success.
Further funding has been applied for to continue the upgrade works in the park. Future plans include:
- A bandstand and paved area
- Completion of a CCTV project, with cameras to be installed in the park. Funding for this project has been secured, and work has commenced, with completion expected within the next 12 to 18 months
The refurbishment will ensure that Baltinglass Park continues to be a vital resource for everyone in the community.
Cathaoirleach Cllr. Paul O’Brien noted that; “Baltinglass Town Park is now not just a park — it is a place where children can play, where friends can gather, where families can walk and talk, and where we can all enjoy the beauty of nature and the joy of community. Let this space continue to grow, to welcome, and to inspire.”
Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass Municipal District, Cllr. Patsy Glennon said he “welcomed the upgrade works in Baltinglass Park and commended those who secured the funding and carried out the work in the park. He called for further investment to be allocated for projects in the Baltinglass Municipal District highlighting the need for better sporting and public amenities for the people of the area.”
The Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, said, “There has been positive feedback from the people of Baltinglass regarding the improvement works, which has been reflected in a significant increase in the number of people using the park regularly. This Park is a reflection of what can be accomplished when we work together, when we support one another, and when we build with purpose.”
IMAGERY
Picture 1: Local Elected Officials and members of Wicklow County Council. Photo credit: Liam Cullen
Picture 2: (L to R) Cathaoirleach Cllr. Paul O’Brien and Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass Municipal District, Cllr. Patsy Glennon. Photo credit: Liam Cullen
Picture 3: Local Elected Officials and members of Wicklow County Council. Photo credit: Liam Cullen