Riverside trails planned for Bunclody?

By Dan Walsh

The development of Bunclody Town Park incorporating the Market Square with the introduction of riverside walking trails and a river strategy was welcomed by members following a presentation by Shay Howell of Wexford County Council at Monday’s monthly meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District held in the Presentation Centre.

The project is in the early stages and discussions are planned with local landowners and the development would include about 12 extra car parking spaces and a children’s playground covering approximately one acre.

Cllr Jackser Owens called for a united approach from the members in support of the project and he felt “it would be grand for the town.”

Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan described the project as “very positive for Bunclody” and she encouraged the positive use of natural resources, the river strategy and felt it could really develop an environmental approach.

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy pointed out that Bunclody has two rivers – the Cody and the Slaney – and no public access to either one. She encouraged the project and said Bunclody was a hub for walking trails and cycle ways and lead to trails in nearby Carlow and Wicklow.

Mr Howell said it wasn’t “the finished article yet”, he hoped to gain more land and was hoping for support. The acquisition of more land is important.

Cllr John O’Rourke enquired as to the potential cost of the project, but Mr Howell felt “it is too early” to speculate, however, Cllr O’Rourke received a more positive response when he asked if the playground would be suitable for children with disability and autism.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Cathal Byrne gave a “cautious welcome” to the project as he believed that some projects don’t always turn into solid reality and take years to complete so he is looking forward to “a solid plan” and removing obstacles to planning permission.