Public Space and Amenity Enhancement – Safe Accessible Walking Track for all Ages

Description

Public Space and Amenity Enhancement

This project involved the enhancement of the Avoca GAA/Rooster Park community park and public space to include a walking track, picnic area and viewing area for games.
The project proposal was to install a walking track around the perimeter of Rooster Park which measures 625 meters, to include elevating the walking track to the higher level at the Irish Rail fence and ensure a level walking track at the opposite side of the grounds facing the Woodenbridge road.

The elevated area along the Irish Rail fence line presented a natural multi-generational viewing area for sports activities as well as an area that can accommodate picnic benches and seating. The installation of a handrail on top of the wall and the addition of the walking track maximises the amenity value and makes it accessible for all ages.

The enhancement of this recreational facility enables the parents and grandparents of the juvenile players (approximately 130) to have a leisure or fitness walk when waiting for the children to complete training.
The walking track is open to all and has also benefited other residents in the village who may wish to use it – particularly older people recovering from knee/hip replacements who want to exercise on safe even terrain away from road traffic.

Aim of Initiative

Increase community engagement of all ages in outdoor activity, by enhancement of the Avoca GAA/Rooster Park community park and public space to include a walking track, picnic area and viewing area for game.

Who is it aimed at

Residents of Avoca and surrounding areas.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Collaboration between Avoca GAA, Rooster Park Community Group and Wicklow County Council to agree on the development plan.
2. Securing funding from Wicklow County Council and Department of Rural & Community Development, under Town & Village Renewal Scheme funding.
3. Effective Project Management by the Project coordinator and voluntary work by several teams of local community volunteers.

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Gaining agreement of all parties on the project plan.
2. Securing funding and raising match funding through community events.
3. Operational challenges with drainage issues and some legal issues, in relation to the perimeter fence, which had to be resolved with Irish Rail .

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. Accessible walking track allowing a circuit of 625m, with regular distance markers, allowing walker to measure their distance, pace and progress.
   Low level lighting bollards (18) have been installed at regular intervals, which improves visibility and safety for walking, particularly in the winter months.
2. An elevated picnic area and viewing area for games, with accessible ramp and handrail, to facilitate access for older people and wheelchair access.
3. Public realm amenity that facilitates intergenerational activity by providing accessible viewing area for parents & grandparents to watch children’s matches and walking track that provides safe space for older people to walk safely with younger children.