Major New Public Park Opens In Limerick

Costing an estimated EUR2.2m to develop, ‘Castletroy Park’ is now one of the largest purpose-built public park and amenity areas in the Midwest Region.

The delivery of the 17-acre development follows an eight-month long construction contract between Limerick County Council and contractor L&M Keating of Kilmihil, County Clare.

The development, which was designed by local company Nicholas de Jong Associates Urban Design, features 1.2 km of pedestrian pathways, a fully equipped children's playground, skateboarding area, circular cycle route, and central performance and exhibition area with covering structure.

It also includes an array of natural habitats, including a 4,300 sq. metre lake, wetlands, wildflower grass areas and woodlands

The development, which is located opposite Castletroy College, is complemented by park furniture, ornamental planting areas, a public car park and main entrance feature. It will be open to the public seven days a week during daylight hours, and managed by Limerick County Council.

Cllr. John Gallahue, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, said that the new facilities were a significant and welcome addition to Limerick’s outdoor recreational infrastructure.

‘The County Council has always been conscious of the growing population of the City Environs and the increasing demands for enhanced recreational facilities. To this end, therefore, the additional amenities being provided in this park will also be complemented by further recreational facilities in the Castletroy area and also a proposed new Neighbourhood Park at Ballykeeffe. This park will serve the population of the Southern Environs, including Ballykeeffe, Dooradoyle, Gouldavoher, Raheen and Mungret’, explained the Cathaoirleach.

Mr. Gerry Behan, Deputy County Manager, said the provision of sporting and recreational facilities and services is one of the core functions of Local Government.

‘Castletroy continues to experience growth in terms of developments and population. Therefore, it is imperative that this is matched by the provision of important infrastructure such as recreational amenities. The funding made available through the Development Levy Scheme, makes it possible for the first time to provide this state of the art recreational facility. I expect that this accessible and convenient setting for relaxation and recreation will become a focal point for the people of the locality and beyond’, added Mr. Behan

Limerick County Council has in recent months made significant progress in meeting its obligations under the County Limerick Play Plan 2006-2010 and National Play Policy – Ready, Steady, Play!

Play facilities have been provided at Kilmallock, Cappamore, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale with further playgrounds planned for Askeaton, Rathkeale, Croom, Kilfinane, Castleconnell and Bruff. Elsewhere, the Council and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) are developing all weather soccer and multiuse facilities for young people in Abbeyfeale, Patrickswell, Hospital, Rathkeale and Cappamore.

Earlier this year, meanwhile, President of Ireland Mary McAleese officially opened the Askeaton Pool And Leisure Centre, which has been established as a lasting tribute to Askeaton’s proud and lengthy association with organised swimming and water sports.

-ENDS-

Note to Editor:
- For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 086-8534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- PRESS 22 attended today's opening ceremony.

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900