Room for improvement at playpark in Waterford City
Ballybeg play park is mooted for improvements.
The state of Balllybeg Playpark was raised at the recent Metro Council meeting in City Hall.
Councillor Donal Barry noted that the park had been allocated a grant of €14,000 for improvements.
He asked the Executive: "Can I request a timeline detailing the scheduled improvements for Ballybeg Play Park, a vital community facility within the estate and surrounding area, following the recent grant allocation.
"Additionally, can I propose the establishment and identification of a suitable site in Bracken Grove area for developing a much-needed park to serve the area's increasing population."
Cllr Barry spoke about other places in the area. He asked: "Is there any available space near the local creche that can be utilized for this purpose? Similarly, in Kilbarry, numerous residential developments are under construction, yet there are no facilities for children or places for parents to gather and foster an inclusive community environment."
He also raised the location of Blackfriars Abbey, commenting: "The Council has received funding for some remedial work to Blackfriars Abbey in Conduit Lane. This historic site, unfortunately, remains inaccessible to tourists and locals, despite its potential as a significant asset in the city center. Is there a long-term development plan for Blackfriars Abbey drawn up which I feel is essential."
Director of Services Michael Quinn confirmed that there is a development plan ongoing for Blackfriars Abbey. He later referenced parks, commenting: "That's a significant investment, we'll take note of the issues that were raised and see if and how they could be addressed."
"But it's not a small job to identify land and get the land and then get funding and then get back money," he said.
"It's a long process which we have seen for ourselves recently come to fruition."
Read about how the Ballybeg Estate is preparing for its 50th anniversary celebrations here.
