COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
MOTION NO. 10
MOTION: Councillor P. Gogarty
That this Area Committee requests the Chief Executive review the operation of Willsbrook Park with a view to making security, environmental and public usability improvements including examining vermin control measures given more recent reports of rats, trimming of trees blocking light for residents and those posing a risk in high winds, installation of no dumping signage at gate entrances and consideration for more active usage of the walled garden area.
REPORT:
Willsbrook Park has been undergoing a programme of improvement works over the last number of years. The works have been designed to create a more enjoyable experience for visitors. Security, environmental improvements and public usability are 3 areas which have featured in works to date. A list projects undertaken in the last 4 years is included below for information:
The park has been treated for rats on 2 recent occasions in April 2015 and March 2017. The park is regularly inspected and currently there is no evidence of a rat issue in the park. Should additional information be provided on specific locations where rats have been sighted this will be investigated.
Tree works have been ongoing throughout the park with the area between the walled garden and the park vehicle entrance receiving the most attention. Further works are planned for this area during the 2018/2019 pruning season.
Dumping in the park tends to be localised and occurs mainly in the vicinity of the vehicle entrance and at the pedestrian entrance at Esker Lane. Both areas will be reviewed to see if it can be eliminated. The provision of “No Dumping” signage will be considered as part of the review.
As outlined in the above report recent works in the walled garden include the surfacing of the path leading to the bench and the planting of apple trees. Any suggestions regarding more active use would be most welcomed and will be considered upon receipt.