Call for recreational infrastructure

Greystones-based councillor Jodie Neary has called for more recreational, community and seafront infrastructure in the district.

Cllr Neary has made a number of proposals ahead of plans being made for a three-year programme of capital works in County Wicklow. She said that resources are under strain at the moment due to population growth and changes in demographics. Existing playgrounds are at capacity, while populations expand in Greystones, Delgany, Kilcoole and Newcastle.

‘There are parts of Greystones including Delgany and north Greystones still without access to playgrounds or public green spaces within walking distance,’ said Cllr Neary. The local area plan requires ‘that active open spaces be provided at a rate of 2.4 hectares per 1,000 population’.

She said that there is a need for more age-appropriate recreational facilities.

‘Children too old for playgrounds but too young for skate parks have nowhere to go,’ said Cllr Neary. ‘I have been calling on Wicklow County Council to look into the potential of having a scooter park in the area. There is huge demand and parents are asking me about this all the time.’

Teen spaces are also included in the submission. ‘If you ask teenagers what they want in the area, they really just want a safe space to hang out,’ said Cllr Neary. Barriers to access remain on seafront and walking routes. ‘I would love to see an uninterrupted disability accessible route for people from one end of the town to the other including disability accessible public toilets,’ said Cllr Neary. ‘An inclusive adult outdoor gymnasium could cater to all ages and all abilities and would be ideally located by South Beach to connect with existing walking routes or along Kilcoole seafront.’

She called also for more maintenance of existing structures at the seafront, like railings, seating and steps as well as outdoor showers, changing rooms and taps.