No timeline for park playspace development

IT IS “not possible to provide an accurate timeline” for the development of a playspace at Delaford Park in Knocklyon, according to South Dublin County Council.

The council stated that this is the case because “there are a number of other works in the park that must be completed first”.

The issue was raised at a recent area committee meeting by Fianna Fáil councillor for Firhouse-Bohernabreena, Deirdre O’Donovan.

Cllr O’Donovan asked for an update on the playspace plans and noted that the development of the new Gaelscoil Chnoc Liamhna building in the area is nearing completion.

“In order to facilitate the construction works on the school an area of parkland was provided as a site compound and remains in use as such,” stated the council.

“When the construction works are completed a significant level of reinstatement works and landscape will be required by the contractor to return the area into parkland.

“This work will involve ground-shaping, extensive planting and sowing grass.

“Much of this work is weather-dependent and can only be done in dry weather and once soil conditions allow.

“The establishment time for grass can vary greatly and can take a long time especially if sown during the dormant season where very little growth occurs.

“It is likely to be Q2 2023 before grass has been established.

“Once this work has been completed by the building contractors there is also a requirement to lay a path through the park as currently there is no wheelchair access within the park.

“This access is required before a playspace can be installed.

“Public Realm will also need to consult with local stakeholders and pupils of Gaelscoil Chnoc Liamhna to find out how they would like any playspace to be developed.”

The council added that councillors will be notified when the local authority reaches the point of setting out a timeline for the development of the playspace and will commence consultations.