Increased garda patrols sought at Wicklow park as more than 600 sign petition over anti-social behaviour

By Hugh O'Farrell Walsh, The Wicklow People

District councillors in Greystones have called for increased Garda patrols at Dr Ryan Park ahead of Halloween.

Concerns about anti-social behaviour in the area, and the future management of the popular community amenity, were raised during their September monthly meeting.

Residents and community groups across Greystones have launched a petition online calling on Wicklow County Council and gardaí to take urgent action to address what they describe as “escalating anti-social behaviour” in the park.

The petition, signed by more than 600 people in three days, highlights growing concerns over incidents including bonfires, intimidation, littering, vandalism and fireworks being aimed at people and property.

Campaigners say many residents no longer feel safe using the park, while parents are increasingly worried about their children’s safety, particularly as Halloween approaches.

At Tuesday’s council meeting, Cllr Stephen Stokes proposed that a letter be sent to Superintendent Tara King highlighting the situation in the park.

He said additional garda patrols should be sought in the lead up to Halloween, a period when residents have previously experienced increased levels of anti-social activity.

While highlighting local concerns, Cllr Stokes acknowledged the challenges facing gardaí, and noted that limited resources place constraints on what can be achieved through policing alone.

The council is waiting a report from the fire service relating to incidents in the area.

Alongside this discussion are wider efforts to secure the long-term development of the park and increase community involvement in decision-making.

Earlier this year, councillors Lourda Scott and Stephen Stokes submitted a motion seeking a meeting with council officials following the unsuccessful outcome of a funding application for Dr Ryan Park.

The motion called for discussions on reconvening the Dr Ryan Park Committee and advancing plans for future development of the parklands.

The committee had previously been viewed as an important vehicle for bringing together residents, local organisations and public representatives to support improvements in the area.

Responding to the motion, officials recognised that a fresh approach would be required to progress the re-establishment of the committee.

Although a funding application relating to natural play facilities in the park was unsuccessful, the council said it would continue working to identify future opportunities for recreational development.

Officials told councillors that efforts to improve amenities and expand opportunities for play within the park would remain a priority despite the setback.