AS the Glenties electoral area gears up for the local government elections, one candidate is capturing attention with a visionary approach to addressing a pressing issue affecting the county’s teenagers.
Jonathan Stewart has released a compelling video online, shedding light on the dearth of recreational facilities available to Donegal’s youth and presenting a ground-breaking solution: building bespoke parks tailored to their needs and preferences.
However, Stewart’s plan goes beyond simply constructing generic recreational spaces.
Instead, he advocates for a collaborative approach that puts the teenagers themselves at the forefront of the decision-making process.
Recognising the diversity of interests and desires across different towns within the county, Stewart believes that involving local teenagers in designing their own parks is key to ensuring that these spaces truly meet their needs.
While Stewart initially explored various options and ideas for park amenities, including bicycle bump parks, basketball courts, dolly lanes, mini golf and outdoor foosball tables to mention a few, he ultimately decided to prioritise community input.
By engaging directly with teenagers from each town, Stewart aims to co-create parks that reflect the unique identity and preferences of each area, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.
Central to Stewart’s vision is the commitment to building these parks in open, well-lit areas that are easily accessible and visible to the community.
By dispelling any notion of these spaces being hidden or exclusive, Stewart hopes to promote inclusivity and encourage widespread usage.
Moreover, the strategic placement of these parks is intended to enhance safety and security, further bolstering their appeal to both teenagers and the broader community.
Beyond serving as venues for recreation, Stewart emphasises the multifaceted benefits of these parks.
Not only will they promote physical and mental well-being among teenagers, they will also have the potential to boost tourism and economic development in the region.
Moreover, Stewart believes that by providing teenagers with their own dedicated space, these parks can help combat antisocial behaviour and foster positive relationships within the community.
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