COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

MOTION NO.11

MOTION: Councillor Joanna Tuffy

That there is an inspection of Oak Tree Saplings in Willsbrook Park * details supplied, and consideration of how to protect them and encourage their growth where feasible. * The location is in the area that is closest to the entrance where Esker Park,Esker Lane and Elmbrook Road meet. Here is approximate dropped pin of the location from Google Maps.

REPORT:

A member of the Public Realm staff has met with a local resident in Willsbrook Park in relation to this matter.  The purpose of the meeting was to identify the location of the tree saplings, quantify the number present and assess their viability.

Many of the saplings are dotted within an existing long flowering meadow area that is maintained as part of SDCC’s meadow management programme. In general, the saplings are in good condition, multi stemmed, and between 60 to 120cm in height.  The resident estimated that there are approximately 50 saplings present but this has not been confirmed.

The fact that these trees have self-seeded is a positive effect of the meadow management that is in place in the park.  Orchids have also been found in the meadow that were previously not present.  It is a great testament to what can be achieved in terms of biodiversity development in a short space of time.  

The question of what to do with the saplings now needs to be considered.  They will be reviewed in conjunction with the Council Heritage Officer having regard to SDCC’s green infrastructure strategy, biodiversity benefits and the meadow management programme.