Officials within the Amenity Section of Galway City Council have confirmed that a design team has been appointed to develop the proposal for amenity development at Millars Lane and Kingston. The strategy will be used by the Council to make and shape decisions such as developing new playgrounds and outdoor sports facilities for the burgeoning area. A central element of the plan is intended to be the development of a rugby pitch and a hockey pitch.
“This is a much needed development and hopefully the appointment of the company will see the design stage of the development proceed quickly," said Cllr John Connolly who welcomed the news.
“I understand that the council are also currently assessing the tenders from consultancy firms who wish to undertake the preparatory works on the design of the South Park Masterplan and it is hoped to appoint a company for these works later in the spring,” revealed Cllr Connolly.
He told the Galway Advertiser that he believes that local knowledge and feedback about the city's parks, woodlands and beaches and how they can be improved, is vital in the development of the strategy.
"While there was substantial public consultation on the development of the plan last year, the City Council remain welcoming of the continued input of sports clubs into the development of the Green Space Strategy. I would encourage all local sports clubs interested in the current and future development of amenity facilities to engage with the City Council in the development of the Green Space Strategy," concluded Cllr Connolly.
The news was also welcomed by former mayor Cllr Clodagh Higgins who told the Advertiser that the ambitious plan contains multipurpose facilities accommodating a wide range of sports but primarily hockey and rugby. It will also include a park area and playground.
"It has taken some time to get to this point, but I am delighted to learn that MKO Planning and Environmental Consultants, have been appointed and engagement has already commenced with the executive and the company.
"We have reached a significant milestone in the quest to create top class sporting facilities for the people of Knocknacarra, Salthill and beyond. The appointment of consultants represents a major step forward in creating a sporting hub that will serve the area, bringing enhanced recreational amenities which will allow us all to live healthy lives.
"The consultants will now review the existing plan and bring their own expertise to it and create a new Masterplan. It is expected that we will proceed to planning stages by year end,” Cllr Higgins added.
Cllr Higgins called for collaboration from Government and agencies to ensure the delivery of these sporting facilities.
“If we proceed to planning by year end, we will need to diligently work to secure funding for this ambitious project. It is imperative that the Government and all agencies work together to ensure the successful delivery of this sports hub and national politicians will have a role to play here in securing funding."
Cllr Higgins said she looks forward to the positive impact this project will have on sports development and the broader community once complete”.
