Galway park project close to planning stage as councillors praise ‘open and transparent’ consultation
Galway City Council planners have been praised by elected representatives for their resident-focused consultation process on the Renmore Neighbourhood Park project, particularly in light of public engagement challenges surrounding active travel schemes.
The project, which encompasses Renmore, Ballyloughane Beach and Lough Atalia, is approaching its third public consultation phase on April 9.
At a Galway City Council East Area meeting, project lead and planning firm MKO presented the feedback and details of the current stage of the project.
Councillor Alan Cheevers welcomed the updates telling his colleagues the approach should be a “template for the way things should be done, open and transparent.”
Preferred designs, informed by data and feedback gathered during earlier consultation stages, will be published, with submissions open for final feedback before the proposal is sent to planning authorities.
During the initial consultation, MKO deliberately refrained from presenting design proposals, allowing residents to shape the vision based on their own priorities.
Nine concept designs were later developed and presented during the second consultation phase, focusing on the three key zones.
Proposed features aim to enhance green space and community amenities, including plans for a promenade along the Renmore side of Lough Atalia.
A further consultation event is scheduled for April 20, with the final consultation period remaining open until May 7.
When a preferred design has been chosen, MKO will prepare an application for An Coimisúin Pleanála.