Status of controversial boules court in Wicklow park to be reviewed

By Hugh O'Farrell Walsh, The Wicklow People

The chief executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, has confirmed an independent expert will determine whether a boules court, two additional chess tables and multiple benches at Burnaby Park in Greystones fall under exempted development, as provided for in planning legislation.

In response to a query from Cllr Stephen Stokes during the council’s September monthly meeting, Ms O’Gorman indicated that officials within the council will defend the installations, following a challenge taken by some local residents, citing insufficient planning compliance.

“We can't undo what has been done in the past, but we can move forward from there. It is our intention to seek that expert opinion, to determine whether it is exempt and if it is exempt then the installations can remain in place, and that would be our hope as I think it is an asset to Greystones.”

However, Cllr Stephen Stokes believes that a consultation process should have taken place with residents and public representatives as a matter of good practice.

“I do believe that Wicklow County Council should have consulted first. I understand that Wicklow County Council may have thought it was an exempted development but maybe they still intend to fight this point, but I just think that it's good practice to consult widely.

“I don't even recall the Greystones District councillors even being advised that the work was about to commence in the Burnaby Park.” he added.

Adding her voice to the conversation Cllr Lourda Scott expressed concern at the possibility of these facilities being removed.

“We are very short on green space in our district, and we have a very small town park, and I think the money and improvements the council have put in there have really benefited the community as a whole and shows the need for these free outdoor community facilities.”

“I personally was very disappointed by the ruling. The feedback I am getting from my constituents is that people are very, very concerned that they're going to lose these improvements to the park, and they don't want to see them going.”

“I urge the council to do what they can within the bounds of that decision to keep those facilities and those improvements there.” she added.

Speaking after the meeting Cllr Stokes said residents are entitled to take a challenge, if they feel it is appropriate.

“We live in a free society, and it is important that local people have fair access to planning reviews.”

“That said the Greystones District is crying out for more amenities. Having campaigned for more benches for several years, I hope that a positive outcome will be found in the case of the Burnaby Park."

The expert assessment will guide the council’s next steps with updates to be shared with the public once available.