The young people of Southill are celebrating the opening of a new recreational and play space area which has been officially opened by Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Maria Byrne.

The Limerick Southside RAPID Programme in co-operation with Limerick City Council and the Southill Area centre are delighted to announce the launch of a Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) in Southill- the first such designated outdoor space in the community.

The MUGA, located beside the green area adjacent to the Southill Area Centre, provides markings for soccer and basketball but other sports can also be played. It will offer much needed recreational and play space for children and young people from the local area.

Jennifer O’Brien, Manger of the Southill Area Centre said she is delighted with the arrival of the new space.

“It will complement existing sporting facilities currently on offer at the Area Centre such as the sports hall and handball alley,” she said. “The staff of the Area Centre will manage the running of the MUGA on a day to day basis with maintenance support provided by Limerick City Council and we’re thrilled that the young people of Southill have such a wonderful facility to enjoy.”

The MUGA was provided at a cost of €83,000 - a grant of €66,000 was provided by the RAPID Programme with Limerick City Council providing the balance.

Launching the new games area, Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Maria Byrne, said the new facility is a very positive development.

“We want the children of Southill to make the most of their playtime and this multi use games area will promote sport and recreation amongst the young community here,” she said.

“It’s an exciting and innovative project which I’m sure will be very popularl and who knows, the sports stars of the future may hone their skills here! It’s also good to see that community partnership is alive and working well in Southill.”

The facility will be open to the public, as well as any clubs who want to use it.

For further information on booking the facility please contact Jennifer O’Brien at Southill Area Centre 061 603710.