Photo: Dylan Vaughan
The state of the art facility, developed by Gowran on the Move, provides a welcoming, accessible and inclusive recreational space for people of all ages and abilities. The Hub includes a multi-use games area (MUGA), inclusive playground equipment, walking track and social spaces designed to encourage physical activity, social connection and community wellbeing.
Speaking at the official opening, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Joe Malone, praised the project as an outstanding example of community leadership in action.
“Today is a celebration of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision, determination and a commitment to making life better for everyone. What began in 2019 as a grassroots conversation about the needs of local people has grown into an outstanding facility that is already making a positive difference in the lives of so many.”
Cllr Malone described the Hub as “much more than a playground or recreational space”, highlighting its role as a place where children, young people, families and older residents can meet, play, exercise and connect in an inclusive environment.
Chair of the Castlecomer Municipal District, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick, said the project would have a lasting impact on the community for generations to come.
“The volunteers of Gowran on the Move have shown what can be achieved when a community is prepared to work together and invest in its future. Their efforts have created a welcoming space that will be enjoyed by children, families, schools, community groups and visitors for many years to come.”
Chair of Kilkenny LEADER Partnership, Kevin Mahon, acknowledged the commitment and dedication of the local volunteer team and the strong partnership approach that underpinned the development.
“The success of this project is a testament to the dedication and commitment of a really strong volunteer team. Recognition is due to the team who worked tirelessly throughout each stage. Money alone will not complete any project; it takes a lot of hard graft and what we see here today is the result of that.”
Speaking on behalf of Gowran on the Move, Denis Hynes thanked the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny LEADER Partnership for their invaluable support. He also paid tribute to the local and wider community for their continued encouragement and generosity, while giving special recognition to the committee members whose dedication and hard work were instrumental in delivering the project.
Officially opening the facility, Minister Dara Calleary highlighted the transformational impact of the development.
“For many years Gowran did not have any dedicated playground or sporting area for local families, children and older residents to enjoy. People had to travel outside the town to access recreational facilities that many communities take for granted.”
The Minister added:
“Today, that has changed. Standing here today it is difficult to imagine that this was once a piece of wasteland, a former landfill site that had been long neglected. Now you have a vibrant, welcoming and accessible community space that the people of Gowran can be immensely proud of.”
The project was delivered through a partnership involving Gowran on the Move, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny LEADER Partnership. The new Hub is expected to serve as a key community resource and destination for residents and visitors alike, fostering inclusion, wellbeing and intergenerational engagement for years to come.
