As a resident of Ashbourne for 15 years, this submission is in support of an adequate Community Park (minimum of 80 acres) at Killegland Farm as voted unanimously on the 21st of January last by 32 Meath County Councillors.
It is quite shocking to understand that some MCC executives consider 80 acres of green space “as excessive” for the Ashbourne area with an ever-growing population and wider community – this is quite unbelievable. Given that our neighbours in Fingal have the benefit of parks with massively in excess of 80 acres, such as Newbridge House (400 acres), Malahide Castle (260 acres) and Ardgillan (194 acres) to name but a few! Based on the population of Ashbourne alone, all research on Health and Wellness benefits supports an 80-acre minimum green space e.g. The Future Analytics Report and the W.H.O.
I ask that the County Development Plan 2021-2027 incorporate an unequivocal commitment to a Community Park of no less than 80 acres in Ashbourne which is so desperately needed for the health and wellbeing of our community. With the onset of Covid 19 and the Government Restrictions this 100% highlighted the lack of public green space available in Ashbourne.
Furthermore, the lands identified at the entrance to Churchfields are the ideal location for the entrance / parking facilities for the Community Park. To even consider granting planning permission for the construction of residential houses on this site would be detrimental to the proposed Community Park plans and a complete slap in the face to those who have fought tirelessly for many years for a green open space that is now absolutely essential for the community of Ashbourne.