Wicklow Wins First Place At The IPB Pride of Place Awards
The Murrough Pump Track recognised for its outstanding contribution to young people and the local community
Wicklow Town Team, in partnership with Wicklow Municipal District, has won first place in the Community Youth Initiative category at the IPB Pride of Place Awards for the Murrough Pump Track.
The prestigious awards celebrate the outstanding work of community volunteers across Ireland who work together to make their towns and communities better places to live.
Representatives from Wicklow Town Team and Wicklow Municipal District attended the awards ceremony at the National Convention Centre on Saturday, 24 October, joining more than 100 groups from across Ireland who were finalists in the competition proudly representing their communities.
A facility making a real difference to young people
The Murrough Pump Track was developed through local collaboration and public funding, involving Wicklow Town Team, Wicklow Municipal District and Wicklow County Council. Construction was carried out by local company Trailbreaker, creating a free, safe and accessible facility for year-round use.
Recognised as the largest facility of its kind in Ireland, the pump track features 280 metres of track, with separate sections catering for beginners and advanced users. It provides a dedicated outdoor space where young people and the wider community can enjoy physical activity, develop new skills and connect with others.
The competition judges visited Wicklow in August to view the facility and hear a presentation from representatives of Wicklow Town Team and the Council.
In announcing the winning project, the judges highlighted the track’s strong positive impact on young people. They recognised its role in encouraging active lifestyles, developing skills and promoting social interaction, while providing an inclusive environment where young people can gather, build confidence and participate in healthy outdoor recreation within their community.
A shared community achievement
Myra Porter, Chairperson of Wicklow Town Team, said:
“The Murrough Pump Track is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision to create something special for local young people.
“This achievement perfectly reflects Wicklow Town Team’s mission: to make Wicklow a better place to live, work and play. Wicklow Town Team is incredibly fortunate to have the ongoing support of so many people who freely give their time, energy and expertise to improve our town.”
Member of Wicklow Town Team, Councillor Paul O’ Brien Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District congratulated all involved in delivering this fabulous recreational facility for the community, which sets the standard for future development of Murrough Waterfront Park. €5.4m in funding has been allocated to further enhance the Murrough which will deliver outstanding amenities for the town and wider community.
The successful completion of the project would not have been possible without the support of the members and staff of Wicklow Municipal District, who believed in Wicklow Town Team’s vision and supported the project from the very beginning.
This first-place award is a significant achievement for Wicklow and recognises the value of partnership, community spirit and investment in facilities that benefit young people. It is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in bringing the Murrough Pump Track to life and creating a lasting asset for the town.
Photo taken at The IPB Pride of Place Awards (L to R): Georgina Franey, Brian Gleeson, Myra Porter, Evelyn Murray and Graham Richmond representing Wicklow Municipal District and Wicklow Town Team.