*An artist’s impression of the playground in Doonbeg.
EFFORTS to develop a state of the art playground in Doonbeg will see a Volkswagen Tiguan raffled off in a draw to take place next month in West Clare.
May 7th has been set as the date for the draw to win a Volkswagen Tiguan which has been organised by the Doonbeg Playground Group which falls under the auspices of Doonbeg Community Development Ltd.
Funds raised will go towards the development of a state-of-the-art playground estimated to cost €190,000 for the benefit of local children and visitors to Doonbeg.
Doonbeg Playground Group consists of a team of parents and community activists whose aim is to recreate this facility for children to enjoy. The decision to redevelop the facility was made following a public meeting in November 2022, this came after the playground had fell into disrepair and the village noticed an increase in families with small children moving to the area during COVID.
Chairperson of the Playground Group Rita McInerney explained, “Doonbeg Community Development put a call out about a year ago to gauge the level of interest for such a project and there was a huge response. A dedicated bunch of parents came together with the aim of bringing this goal to fruition”.
Visits to other playground and consultation with construction companies saw the group begin researching what they believe is the best possible design. The group began the work of researching the best possible design from visiting other playgrounds and consulting construction companies. Doonbeg Playground Group also engaged with Clare County Council officials and local councillors who provided advice and assistance.
After a final design was agreed with a construction company, the estimated cost of the development was revealed to be €190,000. The proposed redeveloped playground will consist of a wide range of equipment and play activities which will be inclusive of children with disabilities as well as those with autism.
Rita added, “A playground for children to enjoy is a vital necessity in any community. It enables families to come together in a safe and shared outdoor facility where they can have fun while exploring their creativity and imaginations”.
It is expected that Win a Volkswagen Tiguan fundraiser will give the Playground Group the bulk of the funds it will need to complete the project. The prize is a 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan Manual R-Line Diesel Black Pack worth €55,000 supplied by Pierce Motors, Ennis. Tickets are €25 each or €65 for 3 or €100 for 5 and can be purchased on the dedicated website www.winavwtiguan.ie which is also accessible from a link on the Doonbeg Playground Facebook and Instagram page.
There is a €50,000 cash prize alternative if the winner decides not to take the car. Ticket holders must be over 18 years of age and tickets can be purchased as a gift. Tickets will also be available at various events over the coming weeks as well as playground group members, local businesses, and from Doonbeg Community Development Office in the Community Hall. The Draw for this fabulous prize will take place on Tuesday May 7th 2024 in Doonbeg Community Hall. Updates on the competition will appear regularly on Doonbeg Playground social media.
