After a "most unfortunate" delay of more than seven years, the Galway City Council this week confirmed it is preparing a draft/master plan for South Park, which is to be presented to councillors for approval in September.
The confirmation was made by City Hall officials at Monday's City Council meeting, where it was also confirmed there will be consultation with all parties, including the Claddagh Residents Association. The announcement was welcomed by Independent city councillor Catherine Connolly, but she added the "delay in progress" since dangerous metals were discovered in South Park in 2006 was "most unfortunate". The city council is also still waiting for certification from the Environmental Protection Agency in relation to South Park given its former role as the municipal refuse area.
Cllr Connolly is now calling on residents and sporting groups to put in submissions when the draft/plan goes out for public consultation during the summer. "There is a golden opportunity to upgrade the pitches and extend the safe cycling and walking path in a loop around South Park," she said, "as well as upgrading the wall along the cycle path, which has fallen into disrepair, and the playground."
She is also calling on young people to make submissions as to what facilities they would like to see in South Park. The councillor is also urging the council to consider a basket ball/tennis courts on the existing hard surface.
Monday's meeting also heard confirmation that litter bins will be erected in South Park in the coming week, and that the budget has already provided funding for lighting to be installed on the walk path. Cllr Connolly said she will be "monitoring the situation closely to ensure there is no further delay in this matter".
