New skatepark to ‘open doors’ for Longford's youth

Treasurer of Longford Skatepark Committee Daniel Keogh said the development on the site of Longford's former greyhound track would bring untold benefits to a section of population that have been overlooked for the best part of a decade.

“It's great to see and it's so very badly needed,” said Daniel, who told of how his own skateboarding aspirations had been put on hold until he moved to Dublin as a student.

“This (skatepark) will open up a lot of doors for so many young people.”

Moves to turn Longford’s former greyhound track into a leading recreational amenity for skateboard enthusiasts have long been a concerted target for local politicians and senior council executives.

A contract signing, which took place last Thursday, capped the end of that campaign following several months of painstaking lobbying and protracted talks.

PICTURES | O'Hehirs: Born to Bake - Longford bakery and café celebrates ten years in business

One of those leading that charge, Fine Gael Cllr Peggy Nolan said the impending contract signing represented a “huge day” for the youth of Longford.

“I am absolutely delighted,” she said. “It’s long overdue. It’s (skateboarding) now an Olympic sport and when work is complete it will be one of the finest facilities the entire region will have to offer.”

It comes on foot of a €405,000 grant from Minister for Rural Affairs Heather Humphreys’ department last November and confirmation at a recent Longford Municipal District meeting that works had been scheduled to commence during the third quarter of this year.

Cllr Nolan paid tribute to Longford County Council’s architect Richard Smith and Director of Services John Brannigan in bringing the project to fruition.

“The design is absolutely fantastic and with myself (Senator), Micheál (Carrigy) and the great work of Co Longford Youth Services it has finally been delivered,” she said.

The long serving local representative also told of how plans were also afoot to incorporate a special needs play area and a pathway aimed increasing Longford’s all-round tourism appeal.

PICTURES | A day for the ages in Killoe - no show like a top class Longford Agricultural Show

“This fabulous amenity will also include a playground for children with special needs,” she said.

“That is the next major project with the consultation of parents. Another definite which will bring a huge economic dividend to the area is for a pathway which will take cyclists and walkers into the town from the Royal Canal Greenway.

“This is a huge day for Longford and the youth of the town and county.”