New amenity park planned for Blarney
AN ambitious plan to develop a new community amenity park in the heart of Blarney village has been unveiled by Cork City Council.
The authority has purchased 6.5 acres of land between the River Martin and the Waterloo Road adjacent to Blarney Woollen Mills for the proposed new facility.
It is envisaged that the new park, which is next to the existing Waterloo Amenity Park, will incorporate a loop walk, ‘ kickabout’ and play area and wildflower meadows.
While the authority has yet to reveal a timetable for the development of the new park, a spokesperson said a set of detailed draft proposals will be drawn up in consultation local county councillors, resident groups and the wider community.
“Given the proximity to the River Martin, the existing tree and lower vegetation is well established and will be maintained and already enhanced in the context of biodiversity and the natural environment,” said the spokesperson.
“Full development will depend on available resources. However, it is hoped to undertake modest works to improve access and pedestrian circulation in the coming months,” added the spokesperson.
News of the proposed new amenity park has been given a warm welcome by local public representatives, including Fine Gael’s Cllr Damien Boylan, who said it would be a wonderful addition to the village.
“This beautiful meadow and riverside walk will be available to the people and I am sure it will be of benefit to our children and grandchildren. The park will be a wonderful addition to the other public spaces in Blarney and will be of great use to clubs, schools, organisations and our community,” said Cllr Boylan.
“The medium-term plan would be to link this area with the beautiful Waterloo walk ensuring that our community can have a stunning woodland and riverside walk from Waterloo right down to Shamrock Terrace.”