Kilkenny County Council is delighted to celebrate the official opening of the new Bigwood Playground in Mullinavat, a significant community achievement that will serve the community for many years to come.
The new playground was officially opened on Friday 28th August 2026 by Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Joe Malone, alongside Cllr. Ger Frisby, Chairperson of the Piltown Municipal District, and local pupil William Edward Byrne from St. Colmcille’s National School, Bigwood who joined in marking this special occasion.
The project represents years of dedication and commitment by the Bigwood Playground Committee, who worked tirelessly to bring their vision of a community playground to fruition. The committee was granted a site for the development by the Diocese of Ossory. Following this, the committee successfully secured planning permission and carried out extensive community consultation, identifying the needs and priorities of families in the area.
Working in partnership with the Community Department of Kilkenny County Council, the committee successfully granted funding to support the purchase of playground equipment and site development works. The Parks Department assisted the group in identifying suitable biodiversity areas, installing a bug hotel and providing advice to the committee.
Speaking at the official opening, Cathaoirleach Cllr. Joe Malone praised the determination and vision of the local community: “This project is an outstanding achievement. Here we have a small community with a vision, a plan, and the determination to see it through. This playground is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose. It is now a space that can be enjoyed by everyone in the parish and neighbouring parishes for many years to come.”
Cllr. Ger Frisby, Chairperson of the Piltown Municipal District, also congratulated the committee on their achievement: “It is a huge achievement for a small parish to create an amenity space that is truly intergenerational. This playground provides a place for neighbours to meet, for families to connect, and for children to play safely in a welcoming environment.”
Louise Aylward, Chairperson Bigwood Playground Committee, acknowledged the support received from local families, community volunteers, local businesses, funding partners and Kilkenny County Council, all of whom played an important role in delivering the project. The committee also made a significant contribution to the development, raising and donating €12,000 towards the overall project costs.
Kilkenny County Council congratulates the Bigwood Playground Committee and the wider Bigwood community on the successful delivery of this fantastic amenity, which will serve as a valuable recreational and social space for generations to come.
