Calls for playground to be incorporated.
Local Fine Gael Cllr Neale Richmond welcomed the largely positive results of the Part VIII Planning Consultation for a new sports facilities in Stepaside that were presented before the Council last night (Monday). However, speaking at the meeting last night, he called on the Council to heed public calls for a playground to be included in the new development.
“The public response to this proposal was extremely positive, but the responses did highlight the dearth of recreational facilities, especially for young families, in Stepaisde.
“I very much welcome the Manager’s response that the Parks and Landscape Services Section have confirmed that they will favourably consider the suggestion that a children’s playground be provided at this location or during the development of the nearby Jamestown Park.
“However, I would like to see something concrete laid down for this facility as there is an immediate need for a playground in the area. The Manager also indicated that two further sites for playgrounds have been identified in the greater Stepaside Area, these will compliment the twenty playgrounds already operated by the Council across the County but there is a big difference between a playground on paper and one actually in use, it’s time the Council prioritised this rapidly developing area.
“The two proposed developments will provide a four-court badminton hall, a fitness equipment room and a dance studio, in addition to an enlarged car park, changing & lockers areas, and other administration and support spaces.”