COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

MOTION NO. 4

MOTION: Councillor A. Hayes

That the Manager give a firm commitment that any works to protect ground nesting birds at Waterstown Park be undertaken outside of nesting season, or, in a way that does not interfere with nesting birds in situ.

REPORT:

The Public Realm Section have been managing the annual cutting of meadow grassland in Waterstown Park having regard to possibility of the presence of ground nesting birds.  Grass cutting is avoided during the nesting period in the summer months.  Prior to cutting a walkover survey is normally carried out to ensure there are no ground nesting birds are present. 

The park was assessed by a Bird Watch expert in summer in 2023 for opportunities to enhance the viability of the park to attract ground nesting birds.  The park was deemed to be unsuitable as it is too busy with walkers and lose dogs.  In addition, the proximity of hedgerows and trees to the meadows would probably offer vantage points for predators like crows and buzzards who might predate on ground nests.

It is proposed to carry out a bird survey in Waterstown Park in 2025 and this will provide details of the presence or not of ground nesting birds.