Community groups endorse major regeneration plans for public park in Waterford town

A number of community groups and sporting organisations have endorsed plans for a major regeneration project in Portlaw which will see the development of state-of-the-art facilities including an all-weather playing pitch.

Waterford City and County Council has revealed its plans to undertake a "Public Park Regeneration project" at the current Play Field at  Connolly Road in the town.

As part of the formal public consultation process, details of the project have been on display since before Christmas and the deadline for receipt of submissions is at 4pm this Wednesday, February 5.

To date, five submissions have been received and all are supportive of the proposed development.

In its submission, Portlaw Camogie Club says it would be "an unbelievable addition" to the town while Portlaw Community Enhancement Group Ltd says it also support the plans. "There is no doubt that the exiting children's playpark needs to be upgraded and redeveloped as it has been in existence now for almost 25 years and therefore it is fantastic to see the proposed redevelopment and upgrade plans for this area of the town," states the submission.

In its submission, Portlaw GAA said: "Currently, our training sessions and activities are often hindered by the limitations of existing facilities. The proposed all-weather pitches would allow us to train our younger players in a safe and modern environment, right in the heart of the village."

Submissions have also been received from Portlaw National School and Cllr Declan Clune.

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The proposed development, which is being led by the local authority, will consist of a synthetic playing pitch with seating for up to 90 people; a multi-Sport 5-a-side 2G pitch and an outdoor gym area.

It is also proposed to enlarge and enhance the play park and to replace the existing mixed surface with a full soft surface play area. Works to include sensory area, area specific to 0-24 month age group and an area specific to 6-12yrs old play area. Additional features to be installed.

Charging points for electric vehicles are also proposed along with various landscaping, drainage, lighting, fencing and civil works.