Longford Skate Park
A Community-Led First for County Longford
Longford Town's Skate Park is a landmark recreational facility developed in response to years of dedicated campaigning by the Longford Skatepark Committee, with strong support from Attic House Teen Project, Youth Services of Longford Community Resources Ltd (LCRL), Longford Local Community Development Committee, Longford PPN, Elected Members, and the Regeneration and Community Departments of Longford County Council.
At the time of planning, no skatepark existed in County Longford or its immediate vicinity, making this a pioneering project for the region. The objective was to deliver a 750-square-metre, predominantly street-style skatepark within a secure enclosure at the Old Greyhound Track on Park Road, Longford Town.
From Disused Site to Community Asset
The site, purchased by Longford County Council is 2022 and zoned for recreational use, was selected for its strategic location along the proposed future Longford Town Cycleway and near the Royal Canal Greenway (Longford Spur). The skatepark's positioning close to the Park Road was intentional, maximising passive surveillance, visibility, and accessibility.
While the original scope included a pedestrian connection to the Greenway, budgetary constraints and tender responses necessitated a focus on delivering a high-quality skatepark within the available site. The scale of the park was adjusted to fit the site realistically, ensuring the integrity of the design and user experience.
Key Milestones
- Construction completed: November 2023
- Official opening: 16 February 2024 by Minister Heather Humphreys
- Size: 750 square metres
- Design: Predominantly street-style layout within a secure enclosure
- Access: Strategically located near Royal Canal Greenway and future cycleway network
Funding and Delivery
- €405,000 from the Town and Village Renewal Scheme (Department of Rural and Community Development)
- €45,000 match funding from Longford County Council
A Catalyst for Future Development
The skatepark was the first phase of a multi-phase development at the former dog track site. It has been extensively well used since opening, particularly by young children through to young adults, and has brought a renewed sense of energy and openness to the surrounding area.
Following its success, the second phase, including the Sunflower Playground (officially opened in July 2025) has now been completed. The next phase, a full redevelopment of the old dog track, is due to commence, further enhancing the site's role as a vibrant community hub.
Stakeholders including the Longford Skatepark Committee, LCRL Youth Services, and Attic House Youth Organisation have all expressed their delight at the completion and high standard of the facility.
