Scout den and sensory garden will 'inspire, support and serve' Waterford community
Chief Scout, Eoin Callanan, along with Mayor of Waterford City & County Cllr Seamus Ryan, Polly McPhilips and Briann Fanning, cut the ribbon to officially open thge sensory garden at the re-opening of the Sacred Heart Scout Den. Photo: Joe Evans
The newly refurbished 15th/25th Waterford Sacred Heart Scout Group Den has officially reopened.
The reopening took place on Sunday, September 7, along with the official opening of the new sensory garden.
Mayor of Waterford City and County Seamus Ryan said he was delighted to attend the event.
“On behalf of the people of Waterford, I wish the Sacred Heart Scout Group every success as you begin this exciting new chapter.
"May the refurbished Den and the Sensory Garden continue to inspire, support and serve your community for many years to come,” said Mayor Ryan.
The scout unit held its first ever meeting in 1967 at Scoil Lorcáin before moving to the old chapel in the Ursuline Convent.
In 1973, following the donation of the site by Bishop Michael Russell, the Den was opened.
The building has been extended with no facilities added, and in 2025, with support from the Sports Capital Fund of €100,000, the den had been upgraded and modernised.
It now has new insulation, solar panels and air to air heating.
“This Den is now fit for the future and will continue to serve the next generations of scouts in our community,” said Mayor Ryan.
Today, the den serves almost 100 young people aged six to 18 years.
“This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to everyone involved.
“To the leaders, volunteers and families who give their time and energy to guide and support these young people, I want to extend my sincere thanks, said Mayor Ryan.
On the sensory garden, the mayor said: “Today also serves as the official opening of the sensory garden. A project five years in the making. I would like to take a moment to thank the sponsors, many of whom are here today, for their generous support in making this possible,” said Mayor Ryan.
