Flood damage caused by Storm Chandra forces closure of Broughshane play park

Knockan Road Play Park in Broughshane on Tuesday, when Storm Chandra brought heavy rainfall leasing to the River Braid bursting its banks.

Knockan Road Play Park in Broughshane has been temporarily closed after flooding caused by Storm Chandra damaged the site’s safety surface, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has confirmed.

Flood waters from the storm washed away the play-grade bark surfacing and left significant silt deposits across the park, raising safety concerns for visitors, particularly young children who regularly use the facility.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said:

“Please note that Knockan Road Play Park, Broughshane, is currently closed due to damage to the safety surface caused by flooding due to Storm Chandra.

“The flood waters washed away the play-grade bark and left heavy silt deposits at the site.

“The site is being inspected and fully cleaned of any potential discharges or contamination that may have come from the river water.

“The play park will reopen when safe for visitors.

“Thank you for your understanding while we undertake these essential works.”

An inspection is to be undertaken by Council officers and a full clean-up will be carried out to ensure there is no contamination from river water before the park can safely reopen.

The closure is likely to be felt by local families, particularly during a period when outdoor play spaces are an important outlet for children. Residents are being advised to avoid the site until the necessary works are completed and the park is confirmed as safe.

No reopening date has yet been confirmed, with the council stressing that public safety will remain the priority.