COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

MOTION NO. 4

MOTION: Councillor E. Tuffy

That the Manager would make a report on actions/measures implemented in 2011 to improve/enhance the amenity provided for residents in the Council's Parks in the Lucan EA, including Waterstown Park, Lucan Demesne, Griffeen Valley Park, Willsbrook Park, Hermitage Park and Ballyowen Park. 

REPORT:

New signs have been installed in all the parks indicated.  The signs have been designed specifically for each park.   The signs show a map of the park and provide information regarding the features/wildlife in the park and also a copy of the Park Bye-laws.  In addition to this the following works have been undertaken:

Waterstown Park – The work in the park concentrated mainly around enhancing biodiversity following the formulation of a biodiversity action plan in 2010.  A number of studies were undertaken during the year which included a BioBlitz event in May 2011.  A recording and mapping exercise was also carried out on the extent of Japanese Knotweed in the park.  A strategy to eradicate this invasive weed is now in place.  A hedgerow management plan is currently being drafted to protect and enhance the hedgerows in the park.  Works also took place in and along the millrace to enhance biodiversity.  This included the removal of non native tree species and the removal of some vegetation from the waters.  A bridge is currently under construction for the millrace and is expected to be installed by summer 2012.

Griffeen Valley Park – The Green Route which links the Grand Canal with the north section of the park was completed in 2011.  The project was funded by a grant from the Department of Transport under the Smarter Travel Programme.  A CCTV and public lighting system was provided along this route to enhance security.  The project also included the installation of an additional entrance onto Adamstown Link Road.  Footpath improvement works were undertaken in the woodland adjacent to the sports centre to alleviate flooding and provide greater access to the sports centre and schools.  The Vesey Park section of Griffeen Valley Park has been fully reopened to the public following completion of water attenuation works associated with the N4 upgrade.

Hermitage – Boundary improvement works were carried out to the stone wall along Ballyowen Lane.  The works made provision to connect Hermitage Park with St Andrews open space at some date in the future.

Ballyowen Park– Works on the all weather pitch by South Dublin Football League is nearing completion.  As part of these works significant pruning of vegetation was carried out in the vicinity of the pitch.