Leas Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council. Cllr Evelyn Parsons has welcomed the successful outcome of the application sheproposed and helped draft for a Ballinasloe Outdoor Recreation Park, including the development of an accessible swim/water recreation area.
This initiative aligns seamlessly with ongoing projects in Ballinasloe and East Galway tapping into the strategic projects and synergies envisioned for the area. On foot of raising the issue at this week's Plenary Council meeting, she greatly welcomed confirmation that contracts for the feasibility master plan is being prepared and anticipated to go to tender Quarter 2024.
Under the ORIS scheme the application received resounding support from Galway County Council and has been awarded a significant €50,000 through the ORIS Project Development Measure.
"This funding will play a crucial role in advancing the vision for a state-of-the-art outdoor recreation park that caters to diverse community needs. The Outdoor Recreation Park will not only serve as a hub for active lifestyles but will also contribute to the broader master planning objectives for Ballin and East Galway," she told the Galway Advertiser.
"The Ballinasloe Outdoor Recreation Park is not just a standalone project; it's a testament to the collaborative and inclusive spirit driving the community's development. In addition to key staff in Galway County Council, I extend gratitude to all involved stakeholders, supporters, and decision-makers who recognized the significance of this initiative.
"This achievement wouldn't have been possible without their collaborative efforts. I am grateful for the letters of support from Ballinasloe Town Centre Businesses, Galway Rural Development, and to Galway Sports Partnership, Accessibility Ballinasloe, all project stakeholders, and the community at large for their input and support," she said.
"It is time for Ballinasloe to embark on this exciting journey, of embracing its natural heritage, utilising and enhancing its environmental resources, including water quality of the Suck River, and providing more outdoor fit for purpose amenity and recreational venues for its growing population. "The inclusive vision for the park, includes featuring accessible swim and water recreation areas, a testament to commitment of ensuring that everyone can enjoy the benefits of outdoor activities," she said.
She said that regarding the timeline, it is important to move forward swiftly with this first stage of the development process.
"Thereafter it will be necessary for detailed planning and consultation phases to be supported to commence promptly, ensuring that the community can start enjoying the benefits of this transformative project at the earliest possible date. I will be looking for the project timeline and to seek commitment in keeping the community informed every step of the way," she concluded.
