Play and Explore Park, Moss Road, Ballygowan

Play and Explore Park

The Play and Explore Park is an exciting project at Moss Road Park, located directly behind the Recycling Centre in Ballygowan. The Park will include a walking and running path and a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

The project will be delivered in two phases:

Phase 1 - The installation of a MUGA
Phase 2 - The development of a 1km walking and running path and car park

Phase 1 - Multi-Use Games Area

The Ards and North Down Play Strategy 2021- 2032 highlighted the need for older children provision in Ballygowan, and this will be installed at Moss Road. The type of older children play provision to be installed was selected following an online survey where residents outlined their preferred facility. A MUGA was the preferred choice for Ballygowan. The primary purpose of the MUGA is to provide play opportunities for older children and young people (aged 13-17 years).

Construction Commence: August 2025 | Expected Completion: November 2025

Phase 2 - Walking & Running Path and Car Park

The new walking and running path will surround the football pitches and will weave through existing trees and regain access through areas which are currently overgrown. The new path will create a loop that welcomes users of all ages to enjoy, encouraging outdoor activity, promoting health and wellbeing, whilst promoting an active lifestyle for all.

The path will provide the opportunities for parkrun, inviting individuals and families to engage in regular outdoor exercise and enjoy the benefits of community fitness.

A new bitmac car park will be constructed, resulting in parking provision for up to 15 cars. This will reduce the need for cars to park at the entrance to the site. Seating and picnic benches will also be installed at various points along the path.

A Public Engagement Session was held in Ballygowan Community Centre on Monday 28th April.  Feedback from this session has been incorporated into the final design of the walking / running path.

Construction Commence: October 2025 | Expected Completion: Early December 2025

The plans can be viewed below:

Moss Road -1061-03 Proposed GA Plan R4 (PDF, 1 MB) (opens new window)

The walking and running trail has been developed in collaboration with Ballygowan & District Community Association and is funded under the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Programme (Department for Communities, Department for Infrastructure and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs)

The MUGA has been developed through public engagement and is funded by Ards and North Down Borough Council.