COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

MOTION NO. 14

MOTION: Councillor Peter Kavanagh

This Area Committee agrees to add Stepping Stone Forests to Corkagh Park, Rathcoole Park and Knockmitten Park, similar to those added to Sean Walsh Park, subject to appropriate locations being identified.

REPORT:

The planting of mini woodlands is delivered by the Public Realm Section in conjunction with community volunteers most notably with the Stepping Stones Forests group based in Tallaght.  The pilot mini woodland that was planted in Sean Walsh Park is the first of its kind on public lands in the county. It is in its first year of establishment and initial indication shows that it is growing well.

A second mini woodland is planned for Mill Lane Park in Palmerstown. This initiative derived from discussion with Stewarts Hospital, who are implementing woodland management works on their lands to restore their views and remove undesirable dominant species such as laurel and sycamore. These works are being carried out following an ecological survey of the lands. The site of the mini woodland planned for this area has been carefully chosen to retain a green infrastructure connection between existing woodlands in the area. Stepping Stone Forests will coordinate with local community groups and volunteers in the delivery of this project.

While it would not be possible to commit to other works on behalf of the Stepping Stones Forest group, SDCC will continue to work to facilitate the planting of mini woodlands in appropriate locations around the County should the opportunity arise, which may include the parks identified.