ONE of the oldest public parks in West Belfast is set to open to the public after a £2 million renovation fund.
Dunville Park on the Falls Road will boast a 3G pitch, adventure playground, running track and senior play area.
The extensive upgrade got under way last year after Belfast City Council provided £2 million in funding which was later match-funded by the Department for Social Development (DSD).
Sinn Féin MLA Fra McCann, who campaigned tirelessly for the funding to be awarded to the 100-year-old park, said the renovation will help the local community “realise the park’s potential.”
Sinn Féin Councillor Jim McVeigh said he wants the park “to be used by everyone in the community.”
“There is no doubt that Dunville Park is looking fantastic and the work that has gone into it is second to none,” he said. “This is the first big Council citywide project and Dunville Park will be a place for both our senior citizens and young people to enjoy. We want as many people as possible to enjoy this new facility.”
SDLP Councillor Colin Keenan told the Andersonstown News that he had taken a tour of the park “to see for myself how the £2 million was spent.”
"In doing so, I couldn't help but be impressed by the high quality finish that has been achieved and the various new features the park has, namely, a seven- a- side pitch and new outdoor gym equipment as well as several new play areas for children,” he said. “From this project’s inception a number years ago many people have been involved in its delivery and I would like to thank them all on behalf of the whole community for a job well done.
“As we move forward now towards the official launch of the park in August, it is hoped that the Council in partnership with the local community will devise a year-long plan of exciting activities aimed at making the park a warm and welcoming place to all those who will visit it.”
A spokesperson for Belfast City Council said: “The site is due to be handed over to the Parks Department this weekend by contractors and if everything is satisfactory the park will be open next week, although an official opening will not take place until August.”
