Park for teenagers in Bagenalstown to open by summertime

THE Fair Green park in Bagenalstown is one of only six places in the country which received government funding to develop an outdoor interactive space for teenagers.

The project, due to be completed in time for summer, will provide sheltered and accessible seating, outdoor gaming tables, a smart bench with WIFI and an in-ground trampoline on the southern side of the Fair Green, opposite the church.

Bagenalstown councillors learned of the project at a meeting of the municipal district on 1 April. In his presentation, Barry Knowles, director of services at Carlow Co Council, noted the project was a “fantastic opportunity for Bagenalstown.” “It’s a chance to have something specifically for them; a space that reflects their needs, their ideas of spending time. This space will provide teenagers with a flexible, safe place to spend time together.” Minister for children Norma Foley made the funding announcement allocating €50,000 to Carlow Co Council for the project in Bagenalstown in June 2025. The funding was sourced from dormant accounts after research showed that more play and recreation spaces were needed for the nearly half-a-million teenagers in Ireland.

Carlow Co Council worked with Carlow Regional Youth Service and Comhairle na nÓg to develop the application for the area in Bagenalstown. A further €20,000 in funding was secured from Michael Brennan, director of services for community affairs at Carlow Co Council. Mr Knowles said planning and preparation is complete, a contractor has been appointed, and works are due to start in early May 2026.

Cathaoirleach Daniel Pender said: “It’s a very positive development for a park in the centre of town. It’s something that’s different.” Cllr Andy Gladney said the project was “great for the kids, the teenagers as well. I hope they’ll appreciate it and look after it 100%.”