COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF RATHFARNHAM / TEMPLEOGUE / FIRHOUSE / BOHERNABREENA AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

MOTION NO.3

MOTION: Councillor L. Hagin Meade

That South Dublin County Council will create, as part of the parks strategy, sensory gardens and areas, in addition to those in playgrounds, in the Rathfarnham, Templeogue, Firhouse Bohernabreena area, for the benefit of adults with additional sensory needs, disability, and dementia.

REPORT:

In 2019 a universally accessible sensory garden was installed in Firhouse village, this was installed in conjunction with the Central Remedial Clinic. In addition to this as part of the Have Your Say participatory budget scheme there is a proposal to have a health and wellbeing garden installed beside the Firhouse Community Centre which is likely to include sensory features and planting. This is being delivered by the Council's Community Section.

It should be noted that public parks are considered sensory landscapes with benefits for all to enjoy with features, surfaces, objects and plants that stimulate the senses through touch, sight, scent, taste and hearing. When designing parks, playgrounds, and public realm areas, sensory needs are integrated in the design to create inclusive and engaging environments that cater to a wide range of individuals, enhancing the overall experience for all visitors.