QUESTION: Councillor D. Adelaide
To ask the Chief Executive for an update on plans made to prevent vandalism as updates are rolled out to St. Cuthbert's Park?
REPLY:
As part of the improvement works in St. Cuthbert’s Park, a series of robust measures are being implemented to deter vandalism and anti-social behaviour:
Durable equipment: All new play and park infrastructure has been selected for its strength and resilience to ensure long-term durability.
Active supervision: Our Park Rangers carry out regular patrols, supplemented by Garda patrols in the area.
Daily maintenance: Council teams undertake daily inspections and maintenance to quickly identify and address any issues that need to be addressed.
Community involvement: We continue to work closely with local residents who care deeply about the park. They report concerns promptly and are already assisting in keeping the playgrounds clean.
Security enhancements: We will be strengthening security at park entrances. One entrance is already complete and the next two entrances will be done in the coming weeks.
Removing vegetation; The removal of vegetation that currently provides cover for anti-social activity, combined with crown lifting will ensure there is greater passive supervision in the park .
Ground conditions: While the playgrounds are not looking their best at present due to works being carried out during a wet period, conditions will improve as the grass establishes and the ground recovers. This will improve the amenity value of the playgrounds and improve their appeal to local residents.
These combined measures aim to create a safer, more welcoming environment for all park users as the upgrade works progress.