COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN/PALMERSTOWN/NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, June 29, 2021

MOTION NO. 18

MOTION: Councillor G. O'Connell

That the Chief Executive give a report on the number, location and condition of Biodiversity sites within this LAC and if any new ones have been added this year.

REPORT:

There are 9 locations in the Lucan/Palmerstown/Fonthill LEA where the grass cutting regime has been adapted to enhance biodiversity having regard to the National Pollinator Plan. The locations are Ballyowen Park, Collinstown Park, Griffeen Valley Park, Lucan Demesne, Waterstown Park, Fonthill Road, Ardeevin Estate, Fforster Estate and Vesey Park. Vesey Park is a new site which was include this year.

Waterstown Park has very species rich habitats however the diversity of wildflowers in the managed grassland areas has been affected by the encroachment of less desirable species such as brambles and meadow grasses. The Public Realm Section is working with the Council’s Heritage Officer to address this issue through appropriate cutting practices.

The diversity of species in other locations is determined somewhat by the soil conditions and the seed bank present. The rich soils in residential areas tend to be less diverse and dominated by flowering grasses with dandelions or buttercup showing a splash of colour where they are present.