Kildare residents are fundraising to build their own €550,000 public park
The community itself raise at least 10% of the overall cost through fundraising efforts
A derelict site in Johnstown, Naas, is being transformed into a new community park for the residents.
An appeal has been launched to raise money.
It’s hoped that by next year a long-neglected eyesore will become a welcoming green space for families, children, walkers, gardeners - the whole community.
The total cost of the project is estimated at €550,000. Most of this funding will come from Kildare County Council, LEADER and other community funding organisations. However, the community itself must raise at least 10% of the overall cost through fundraising efforts.
Significant work has already been completed to secure the site, obtain planning permission and secure initial funding to begin the project. Now, the Johnstown Community Association is calling on the public for support “to help bring the full vision to life.”
The new park will be a centre for activity and recreation for all ages and plans to include a children’s playground, walking trails and green spaces, outdoor fitness equipment, benches and landscaped seating areas, meeting rooms, raised garden beds and a community polytunnel as well as planting to support biodiversity.
Donations from the community will help fund pathways, public lighting and seating.
It will also fund the construction of a meeting room, storage unit, work shed, landscaping, including a community polytunnel and raised garden beds.
It hoped to provide a playground.
The JCA says the completion of the park depends on continued community fundraising and support and every contribution will help create a lasting amenity “for generations to come.”
It’s asking supporters to consider making either a once-off donation or setting up a recurring monthly contribution.
Further information available by emailing [email protected]