Safer, inclusive play spaces unveiled in Mid and East Antrim

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, pictured with children from Moorfields Primary School, along with community representatives, contractors, councillors and council staff.

Two much-loved play parks in Mid and East Antrim have officially reopened, unveiling safer, more inclusive and fully refreshed spaces designed to bring families together for years to come.

The completion of refurbishment works at Moorfields in Ballymena and Beachlands Play Park in Carnlough marks a significant investment in community play provision — transforming everyday green spaces into vibrant, modern environments built around accessibility and wellbeing.

Moorfields in Ballymena now benefits from an upgraded outdoor space, carefully redesigned to better serve children and families in the area.

Meanwhile, Beachlands Play Park in Carnlough has been reimagined as a colourful seaside-themed destination, offering a fresh and engaging experience for both local families and visitors to the coastal village.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said:

“We are delighted to see the completion of the play parks at Beachlands and Moorfields.

“This investment provides high quality, accessible spaces for children of all ages and abilities to play, explore and connect. We take the importance of play seriously and recognise how important it is for the health and wellbeing of our children and young people.

“We thank the community for their patience during redevelopment and look forward to seeing the play parks full of life and laughter for years to come.”

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, pictured with children from St John’s and Carnlough Integrated Primary Schools, along with community representatives, contractors, councillors and council staff.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council confirmed that both parks now feature brand new play equipment, enhanced safety surfacing, improved accessibility and dedicated seating areas for parents and families.

The upgrades reflect a clear focus on inclusion, ensuring children of varying ages and abilities can use the facilities safely and confidently.

The improvements also acknowledge the broader role that accessible outdoor spaces play in supporting physical health, social development and community connection.

For Moorfields residents, the transformation at provides a renewed local hub for outdoor play. In Carnlough, the revitalised Beachlands Play Park adds further appeal to the village’s seaside setting, enhancing amenities for both residents and visitors alike.

As the parks reopen, council leaders say the priority now is simple: seeing them filled with children, families and the sound of everyday joy once again.