€50,000 secured for new teen space in north Leitrim town

Leitrim County Council has successfully secured €50,000 in funding to create a new outdoor recreational space for teenagers in Kinlough.

The project, which will be constructed at Kinlough Community Centre, is part of a nationwide initiative under the Making Spaces for and with Teenagers Pilot Project, funded through the Dormant Accounts Fund.

The development, which must be completed by the end of the year, will include exercise equipment and a pod for teenagers to sit, charge devices, and chat.

“I am delighted,” said local councillor and Kinlough native Justin Warnock, adding that while good work has been done by the community to deliver initiatives for the area in recent years, there is still a need for dedicated spaces for teenagers.

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“I have worked hard on behalf of our youth, and this will be another facility at the Community Centre which will benefit all,” he said, thanking the Kinlough Development Committee for their support.

Leitrim is one of only seven local authorities across Ireland to receive funding under the scheme, which aims to provide recreational areas for teenagers, particularly those who are marginalised, disadvantaged, or living with disabilities.

Announcing the funding, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley said the project was about more than just building spaces — it’s about building stronger communities. “By providing safe, inclusive spaces for our young people to meet and spend time together, we are investing in the future of our communities and allowing young people to thrive, learn, and grow,” she said.

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Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council, Joseph Gilhooly, also praised the achievement, describing the funding award as a “very welcome” result after a “highly competitive” application process.