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atest press release from Cllr Stephen Stokes, issued on Tuesday, Sept 23rd 2025…

The need for more basketball courts was placed firmly on the agenda at the last Greystones Municipal District meeting.

Cllr Stephen Stokes tabled a motion, which received unanimous support from all Councillors.

The motion is calling on the Greystones Municipal District to explore opportunities to deliver outdoor basketball courts, while recognising that such facilities are currently very limited, particularly those that are free for the public to use. The motion will also be sent to Wicklow County Council for review.

Said Stokesy, “My thanks to my Council colleagues for their support. There is a collective determination to deliver these types of facilities. We need to explore every avenue to make this a reality.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes also paid tribute to Marvin Jerome Hanke from Greystones Sharks, who highlighted the lack of basketball facilities. This provided the inspiration to bring forward a motion. Cllr Stokes said the motion was about meeting a clear and growing community demand.

He noted: “Basketball is one of the fastest-growing sports in Ireland, yet in the Greystones District the outdoor facilities are limited. Free-to-access facilities are vital if we want to give every young person and family the chance to enjoy sport.”

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At present, young people and families across the district often find themselves travelling long distances to find outdoor courts, or relying on indoor spaces that have a cost and are heavily booked up. Bernie’s lad believes that the lack of free, accessible spaces makes it harder for residents to stay active, socialise, and enjoy the benefits of community recreation.

Stevo added: “Whether you live in Charlesland, Delgany, Greystones, Kilcoole, Killadreenan or Newcastle, the lack of facilities is clear. New outdoor basketball courts would make a positive difference. By combining it with other amenities such as table tennis, it really would be a slam dunk for local residents.”

For many young people, outdoor courts can serve as a vital outlet for physical activity and social interaction, offering an alternative. Cllr Stephen Stokes stressed that outdoor facilities go far beyond sport, playing a key role in wider community wellbeing:

He remarked: “This isn’t just about basketball. It’s about creating positive spaces that bring people together, improve health and wellbeing, and give families and young people safe and enjoyable options close to home.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes expressed his commitment to working with fellow public representatives, community organisations, and residents to progress the project from motion to reality. By placing outdoor basketball courts on the agenda, he hopes to start a broader conversation about how Greystones Municipal District can expand and improve its public amenities in line with population growth and community needs.

Young Stephen emphasised the importance of acting now to prepare for future demand. He concluded: “This is about planning for the future.

“Our district is growing quickly, and we need to keep pace by delivering modern, inclusive facilities that people of all ages can enjoy.”