Brookview community rally together to save play space destroyed by vandals

By Mary Dennehy

ONE of Tallaght’s most used play spaces is at threat of closure due to ongoing vandalism, which is placing pressure on South Dublin County Council to consider removing the play equipment due to health and safety issues.

A new play space was opened in Brookview in Tallaght last May at a cost to the local authority of more than €100,000.

However, since swinging into action, the play space has become a beacon for a small number of young people who, hanging out in the space, are destroying the playground’s equipment – some of which has been removed and not replaced by the council.

In an attempt to save their playground, the community of Brookview has united to develop a pro-active, grass-roots response to the ongoing anti-social behaviour issues – which are putting the future of the play space at serious risk.

Tallaght Sinn Féin councillor Louise Dunne, who is rearing her own family in the area, said: “This play space is probably one of the busiest in the area, on a good day in the summer there could be up to 150 kids playing there.

“Brookview has one of the youngest populations as well and this play space was really welcomed by the community.

“It’s had a really positive impact and has helped build a great sense of community spirit in the area as parents are getting a chance to meet each other while their kids are playing.

“It’s brought out a sense of pride in the kids as well, many of who are coming up to me disappointed that the council might have to take their play space away.”

She added: “It’s crazy how this major positive is at risk because of a very small few.

“I’m not sure if those responsible for the damage grasp that even the smallest bit of vandalism means that the play space could be removed.

“Sadly if that happens, the council will think twice about investing public money in the area again.

“The council wants to save the play space but they also have to consider if it poses a health and safety risk to kids.”

On Tuesday evening, March 14, the Brookview Residents Association, local people, councillors and representatives from the council gathered to find a solution.

Cllr Dunne told The Echo that a commitment has been given for new LED lights, which will illuminate any dark spots across the play space at night, and the upgrading of the camera system.

The Principal of St Aidan’s Secondary School, Karen Quigley, has also come on board and is carrying out an education piece with teenage students, alongside liaising with St Aidan’s Senior National School.

Council director Teresa Walsh said: “We have had to temporarily remove some damaged or vulnerable equipment and are working with residents to find a solution.

“This playground is very well used and we don’t want to deprive the community of it but we can’t allow it to pose a health and safety risk either.

“We currently have the play space under review.”