Limerick County Council will cut the ribbon at a major new public park and amenity area in Castletroy later this week.

The development of 'Castletroy Park' follows an eight-month long construction contract between Limerick County Council and contractor L&M Keating of Kilmihil, County Clare.

The €2.2m public park and amenity area, which is one of the largest purpose built public park and amenity areas in County Limerick, was designed by local company Nicholas de Jong Associates, Urban Design.

The development features 1.2 km of pedestrian pathways, a fully equipped children's playground, skateboarding area, circular cycle route and central performance/exhibition area with covering structure.

It also a 4,300 square metre lake, wetlands, wildflower grass areas and woodlands.

The development, which is located opposite Castletroy College, is complemented by park furniture, ornamental planting areas, a public car park and main entrance feature.

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It will be open to the public seven days a week during daylight hours, and managed by Limerick County Council.

John Gallahue, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, who will officially open the new public park on Thursday, said: "These new facilities are a significant and welcome addition to Limerick's outdoor recreational infrastructure.

"The provision of this state of the art public park demonstrates Limerick County Council's commitment to further improving the quality of life for local communities.

"The development will be of particular benefit to the growing population of Castletroy and surrounding areas."

Gerry Behan, Deputy County Manager, said the provision of sporting and recreational facilities and services is one of the core functions of Local Government.

"Castletroy continues to experience growth in terms of developments and population. Therefore, it is imperative that this is matched by the provision of important infrastructure such as recreational amenities.

"I expect that this accessible and convenient setting for relaxation and recreation will become a focal point for the people of the locality and beyond," said Mr Behan.

Play facilities have already been provided at Kilmallock, Cappamore, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale.

Further playgrounds are planned for Askeaton, Rathkeale, Croom, Kilfinane, Castleconnell and Bruff.

All of these project are provided under the County Limerick Play Plan 2006-2010 and National Play Policy - Ready, Steady, Play scheme.

(PR/JM)