The Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to BiH Stefano Ellero and the Mayor of Banja Luka Draško Stanivuković visited yesterday the newly renovated playground in Banja Luka’s Obilićevo neighborhood, Srđe Zlopogleđe. Street. The comprehensive reconstruction and refurbishment of this children's playground included the renewal of existing equipment and the construction of a new playground with a sand base, to create a safe environment for physical activity, creativity and social interaction among children.

The Mayor thanked the EU representatives for their support, which enabled the renovation of two more playgrounds, to the delight of many children from Obilićevo and surrounding neighborhoods.

"First of all, I must express my deep gratitude to the European Union, thanks to whom we have accomplished so much in our city – from the water supply project to children's playgrounds. I believe that we will continue our successful cooperation in the future," said the Mayor.

He emphasized that building playgrounds always brings joy, satisfaction, and happiness:

"I would say that this city administration follows one motto: Wherever there is an open space, it should be transformed into a green oasis, a playground, or a park. Right here, on Srđe Zlopogleđe Street, we saw an opportunity to create a beautiful oasis with all these features. Now, this renovated space serves as a place for all generations," said the Mayor, adding that in terms of size and layout, this playground-park aligns with the administration's original concept—installing play equipment on large grounds with sports fields for various activities.

This renovation is part of a broader EU initiative to enhance community infrastructure and quality of life across Bosnia and Herzegovina.

” I am delighted to visit the children playground in Obilićevo, one of three restored with EU funds. In just a few months, and in collaboration with the City of Banja Luka, these locations have been converted into nice and safe spaces for children to play, learn and grow. All children deserve safe spaces to run around and play with their friends, witnessing their smiles is the best reward. This playground is just one of several initiatives supported by the European Union in Banja Luka, which demonstrate our commitment to the city and its citizens. Whether by improving public spaces, supporting local infrastructure, or investing in education and cultural projects, the EU remains committed to working with the people of Banja Luka to achieve a better future”, said Ellero.

As part of its commitment to improving living conditions for the young people, the EU has invested significant funds in infrastructure development in Banja Luka. As part of this initiative, over 200,000 BAM was allocated to renovate three playgrounds that were in poor condition, outdated and unsuitable for safe use.

Apart from the children's playground in Obilićevo, the EU has renovated the basketball and football sports field in the Starčevica neighborhood, known as "Marakana". The renovation included the installation of new basketball hoops, marking the field, replacement of fencing and addition of new lighting. Additionally, the youngest residents of the Trapisti neighborhood also received a brand-new, well-maintained play area on the left bank of the Vrbas River.

All three actions were implemented in cooperation with the City of Banja Luka, with funding provided through the broader "EU for local communities" project, implemented by the Centar za promociju civilnog društva (CPCD) in partnership with the HELP organization.