Chapter 6
Green and Blue Infrastructure, Open Space and Biodiversity
Issues / Recommendations / Observations
Sub. No.
Chief Executive’s Response & Recommendation
gradient and narrowness of paths. Cycle route is seen has having a negative impact on the park and its users. • Concern that proposed cycle route through the Glen Park will have an adverse impact on the slow / calm nature of the park. • Concerns that the widening of paths will damage the landscape and biodiversity “oasis” of the park. Requests to avoid “developing” the park at the detriment of the biodiversity. • Propositions for alternative cycling routes, along the perimeter of the park. • Concerns that proposed public lighting will have a negative impact on the habitat in the park.
Cork City in line with the Cork City Green and Blue Infrastructure. This is further reflected in the Glen Valley Park project description set out in table 6.4 of the Draft Plan: “Support the improvement of Glen Valley Park as a high value multi functional GBI space providing an enhanced riverside amenity route connecting to residential, retail and employment zones in area and the delivering increased biodiversity, recreational and flood relief measures.” Cork City Council is currently working on a project to upgrade cycling and walking facilities between Tinker’s Cross and Blackpool, called the ‘Glen and Mayf ield Cycling and Walking Scheme’. The purpose of this scheme is to upgrade and provide new cycle and pedestrian paths to ensure a continuous route from the Glen area, at the eastern side of the N20 to Tinker’s Cross in Mayfield. The central objective is to encourage active travel through a well-designed multifunctional route. A number of route options through the study area are currently being assessing. The objective of the scheme is to allow vulnerable road users to commute and access local amenities. The scheme will also tie in with BusConnects Cork, which is looking at the development of cycling facilities in conjunction with bus corridors. Once an emerging preferred route is identified a preliminary design will be developed. This design will be submitted for permission through the
statutory processes. Recommendation: No change
(iii) New City Parks in the North East and North West of the City • Requests for more green spaces and recreational facilities in the northside of the city. • Highlight the severe lack of open space for active recreation in the northeast of the city.
145, 180, 350, 346, 388, 421, 435
it is an objective of the Draft Plan that people have good access to parks and active recreational infrastructure in their area. Regarding the provision of sporting facilities and infrastructure, Cork City Council has commissioned an Active Recreational Infrastructure Study to complete a survey, audit and assessment, and to provide guidance on strategic gaps in sporting provision and deficits in infrastructure provision to meet the needs of the City. Several new parks and park upgrades are detailed in tables 6.11 and 6.12.
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