Sports equipment station now in place at Mayo village playground
Councillor Donna Sheridan has welcomed the introduction of a new six-box BoxUp sports equipment station at Balla playground following her request to bring the popular initiative to the village.
BoxUp allows people to borrow sports and recreational equipment free of charge through a mobile phone app. Users simply download the app, unlock a box, enjoy the equipment and return it when finished.
Welcoming the development, Councillor Sheridan said: "I am absolutely delighted to see BoxUp coming to Balla Playground.
"Having seen how successful the facility at Lough Lannagh in Castlebar has been, I asked for the same initiative to be introduced in Balla.
"The BoxUp facility at Lough Lannagh has recorded over 1,800 uses since it was introduced, which shows just how popular it has become.
"It is a fantastic way of encouraging children, young people and families to get outdoors, try different activities and enjoy themselves without having to purchase sports equipment.
"I want to sincerely thank Mayo Sports Partnership and the Castlebar Municipal District team for their support and work in making this happen.
"I was also delighted to introduce the first communication boards in County Mayo to Balla Playground, helping to make the playground a more inclusive and welcoming space for children of all abilities.
"I want to particularly acknowledge Amanda McGuinness, Balla CRD and Balla Tidy Towns for all the work they have put into developing and improving this wonderful community amenity.
"Between the playground, MUGA, sensory park, communication boards and now the new BoxUp facility, we really have a brilliant recreational area in Balla that we can all be proud of.
"These are the types of facilities that make such a difference to families and communities, particularly in our smaller towns and villages.
"I would really encourage families, both locally and from further afield, to come and visit Balla and enjoy everything this fantastic area has to offer."