Irvinestown Indoor Play Village Nears First Anniversary
Katie Burleigh, a teacher and mother of two from County Fermanagh, opened Burleigh Street in Irvinestown. The indoor facility features themed areas such as a construction site, farmyard, coffee shop, and beauty salon for young children. It provides a space for children to engage in imaginative play while parents relax.
Burleigh started the business after seeking local options for her son and finding none similar in Fermanagh. The centre opened last May and now approaches its first anniversary. It draws families from Fermanagh, nearby counties, and tourists.
The venue hosts birthday parties and group bookings. Burleigh noted challenges in shifting from teaching to business management, including pricing, planning, marketing, and daily operations. She stressed adapting to customer needs for success.
Social media consistency aids in engaging visitors, according to Burleigh. Go Succeed offered mentoring and advice that helped launch and develop the business. The program operates free through all 11 Northern Ireland councils.
Councillor Barry McElduff, chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, stated that Burleigh Street shows how local entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses that benefit families and the economy. The UK government funds Go Succeed, which supplies mentoring, events, grants, planning tools, and networks.
Burleigh plans to extend hours, add features, and consider expansion if demand grows.