Councillors approve Ballyjamesduff park development

Councillors of the Ballyjamesduff Municipal District have rubber stamped the Cornahilt Landscape development.

After the public consultation and submissions of observations by residents, councillors have approved the Part 8 planning process and the next phase can commence.

“Today is a big day that is moving a step forward to be becoming a reality,” said Cllr Trevor Smith (FG). “I would hope that the council will take the concerns of the local residents into account, especially during the construction stage, but I warmly welcome the Part 8 planning for Ballyjamesduff.”

Cllr Noel Connell (SF) agreed, saying it is going to be “a good amenity” for Ballyjamesduff. “We have heard so long that there was nothing in Ballyjamesduff for the local residents, and I believe this is going to be a good facility.”

Cathaoirleach T.P. O’Reilly (FG) said, the project will be “transformative for Ballyjamesduff” and its residents. "In Virginia we have what we call the Deerpark and the lake. I couldn't imagine Virginia without that facility, without these amenities and the amount of users that it's there to facilitate. It's absolutely fantastic.”

The proposed development aims to transform Cornahilt into a multi-purpose recreational destination featuring walking trails, play facilities, woodland attractions and dedicated spaces for visitors travelling by campervan. A coffee kiosk with public toilets will be located within a new arrival area, which will also feature cycle parking and a picnic area. The development will include new vehicle and pedestrian access from the town centre via The Grove/Beechwood Avenue with potential to extend the walkway to the Oldcastle Road.

Emphasising his colleague’s point to accommodate residents as well as possible, Cllr O'Reilly said: "There are a few issues there with local residents, and understandably so. I would like their issues to be taken into account, to alleviate any concerns that they have, especially during construction stage.”

Around a dozen submissions had been made as part of the public consultation process. While not opposed to the park itself, residents of Beechwood Avenue had raised concerns over higher traffic volumes, more footfall and construction vehicles narrowing the road – questioning the access route to the park. In the public consultation process, 87% of the residents were in favour of the park.

With planning now in place, funding has to be sought for the development. “We’re still a good bit away from starting, but this was the first step,” Cllr Smith said after the meeting.

Published with support from the Local Democracy Scheme.