New all purpose outdoor exercise-and-recreation area opens in Longford Town Mall complex

A new all purpose outdoor exercise-and-recreation area has opened in the Albert Reynolds Peace Park in Longford town.

The Fitness Zone, which is designed to serve people of all ages and abilities, includes a circular running track, exercise equipment, monkey bars, a stationary bike, an accessible hand bike, a climbing rope, a standing squat machine, and a hangout and recreation area. 

Helpfully, each piece of equipment carries a QR code which links to how-to-use instructions, so first-time users can get started with confidence. 

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The recent opening of the new Fitness Zone was attended by students from four local primary schools, alongside members of Longford County Council and Longford Sports Partnership.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said the new facility would give the Albert Reynolds Peace Park a fresh energy.  

“The Albert Reynolds Peace Park has always been a place where Longford people come together. This new Fitness Zone gives it a fresh energy and a real purpose for the next generation. It is great to see children from local schools enjoying the space and calling it their own.”

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said the Fitness Zone was the direct result of listening to over 100 children and young people who outlined exactly what they wanted to see in their local park. 

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Mr Mahon added, “The fact that it sits within 500 metres of four schools is no coincidence. It was part of the plan from the outset. We are proud to have delivered a space that is genuinely inclusive, physically challenging and free to use for every young person in this community.”

The project involved an extensive consultation process, with 100 children from four local primary schools being invited into the county council chamber to give their views on what the park should offer.

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It was these responses that directly shaped the equipment selection, with each item chosen for its child-friendly design, safety credentials and accessibility for young people with disabilities.

The Longford Municipal District members approved the use of the park for the scheme. 

Longford County Council extended their thanks to people who contributed to the project, including Kompan, who completed the installation efficiently and to a high standard; the Council’s Health and Safety team; Municipal District members and staff under Area Engineer Peter Brady; The Suburbs Project, who maintain the park to an exceptional standard; Director of Services Samantha Healy; and the full Community Department and Sports Partnership teams. Particular thanks was also extended to SEO Ciaran Murphy, David Barden and Conor Clarke, whose work was central to delivering this project.

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