Chapter 6
Green and Blue Infrastructure, Open Space and Biodiversity
Issues / Recommendations / Observations
Sub. No.
Chief Executive’s Response & Recommendation
Submission in support of the plan for a neighbourhood park on the grounds of Enismore Retreat centreMiddle Glanmire Road.
Recommendation Include of a map to highlight existing and new proposed parks.
• Support for northwest park
• Suggestion of adding a park near Kent Station
• Request for parks in Knocknaheeny and Glanmire
(iv) Reinstatement of the weir and canal system at Ballincollig Regional Park: • One submission is in favour of the reinstatement of the Ballincollig regional weir, citing the importance of the interconnected heritage and amenity of the park with the weir, canals, powder mills and barracks for the local residents as well as the possibility to create a tourist attraction around the gunpowder mills. • One submission asks for the removal of the reinstatement of Ballincollig Weir project as weirs are obstacles to river ecology.
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The submissions highlight the complexity and sensitive nature of the reinstatement of the Ballincollig Weir. This project was studied in the Cork City Green and Blue infrastructure Study and would reinstate the partially collapsed weir that currently presents safety issues. The rationale and objectives of the project are described in the GBI study:
• Enhance the range of habitats as part of the reinstated canal system;
• Promote the industrial heritage of Ballincollig Regional Park through the reinstatement of the weir, original canal system and interpretation materials;
• Introduce water retention measures within and alongside the River Lee; and
• Strengthen connectivity to Ballincollig Regional Park as part of the Lee to Sea Greenway project. the project would have benefits for the amenity users, water recreation activities and tourism and potential benefits for natural habitats in reinstalling the canal systems. However, the GBI study does note the potential effects on biodiversity: “w eirs can reduce biodiversity and negatively impact on the natural flow and profile of rivers. Restoration work should therefore enhance the park’s cultural heritage, but not at the expense of the park’s natural heritage.” This is reflected in
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