A new park has officially been opened on the site of a former quarry and landfill dump in County Kildare.

The opening of Kerdiffstown Park celebrated the transformation of the former Kerdiffstown landfill into a 30-hectare multi-use vibrant public space.

A host of additions have been made to the space, including two full-size all-weather sports pitches and three five a side pitches, playgrounds, walking and cycling paths, designated seating, green spaces, fitness stations and parking.

Those using the park can also explore 18 carved stones by artist James Winnett, depicting the myth of Fionn Mac Cumhaill and his warriors. These carvings blend Irish mythology with the history of Kerdiffstown landfill.

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The opening event, which was held on January 31, was hosted by Kildare County Council and saw the attendance of Cathaoirleach of County Kildare, Councillor Kevin Duffy, Secretary General of the Department of Climate, Environment and Energy, Oonagh Buckley, Minister of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD and Minister for Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD.

Speaking at the official opening, Secretary General Oonagh Buckley said: "This park is a real-life case of 'turning trash into treasure'. Kerdiffstown Park is a great new public amenity with top-class sports facilities alongside seating, cultural spaces, a playground and a beautiful landscape for us all to enjoy.

"The Park was formerly a quarry and then a landfill dump which was illegally run and caused significant pollution of the environment. The person responsible for this has been prosecuted and punished.

"The project happened thanks to huge community and public engagement, along with the hard work of Kildare County Council and with money provided by the government. It's been worth the wait."

For further information on Kerdiffstown Park visit here.