Press Release
Open Space and Outdoor Recreation Strategy for County Kildare 2021-2031
Kildare County Council is preparing an Open Space and Outdoor Recreation Strategy for County Kildare 2021-2031. The Planning and Parks Departments of the Council, together with the Kildare Sports Partnership, are now seeking the public’s opinions and ideas to inform the new strategy.
Open space is an essential component of the fabric of our environment which brings social, environmental, economic and health benefits to the communities of County Kildare. The critical importance of open space and green infrastructure has been evidenced in recent times during the global pandemic for recreation and wellbeing.
County Kildare has a wealth of high-quality open spaces including Pollardstown Fen, Donadea Forest, Ballynafagh Lake, Carton Avenue, Castletown Demesne, public parks, sporting grounds, playgrounds, walking and Slí na Sláinte routes including river and canal walkways.
Kildare County Council is actively involved in developing and delivering open space and outdoor recreation. The Council has, for example, recently secured funding for the further development of the Barrow Blueway from Robertstown to Athy and the Grand Canal Greenway from Celbridge to Sallins.
It is envisaged that the Strategy will guide future development of open spaces and recreational facilities throughout the county by setting short, medium and long term goals. It will also include an Implementation and Monitoring programme, identify potential funding sources and inform the imminent review of the Kildare County Development Plan and future Local Area Plans.
The Council would like to hear your opinions and ideas.
• What are County Kildare’s strengths in open space and outdoor recreation?
• Is the quantity and quality of play, open space and outdoor recreational facilities in your area sufficient for your age group or your needs?
• Where are the opportunities to improve open space and outdoor recreation in your area or around the County?
• Are there opportunities to integrate green infrastructure and biodiversity in your area?
You can get involved by completing an online Survey and/or making a submission. All details are available online at https://consult.kildarecoco.ie/en.
The closing date for completed surveys and submissions is 5pm on Thursday the 22nd October 2020.