Chapter 6
Green and Blue Infrastructure, Open Space and Biodiversity
Issues / Recommendations / Observations
Sub. No.
Chief Executive’s Response & Recommendation
Accessibility to the Green and Blue Infrastructure Network
(i) This submission requests the provision and improvement of public spaces for all users in the city for more liveable spaces. 66
Cork City recognises the importance of liveable spaces for all city residents. Parks and open spaces are addressed in Objective 6.19. The future Open Space Strategy will also help achieve this goal, as described in Objective 6.17. The focus on liveability is a key strategic part of the entire Development Plan and is addressed more in detail in Chapter 2 in the Core Strategy. Objectives 2.3 and 2.8 mention liveability. The chapter on the 15-minute city concept and walkable neighbourhoods also relates to the notion of liveability. Recommendation: No change. Clogheenmillcon Sanctuary is mentioned in the GBI study as a place for GBI improvement opportunities. The submission raises the important question of accessibility of GBI infrastructure. This is specifically mentioned in Objective 6.2 Accessibility to the Green and Blue Infrastructure Network. A Clogheenmilcon Fen Ecological and Tourism Plan was prepared in June 2021 and medium to long term plans for a loop walk are being investigated, with a focus on increased accessibility, to be balanced with the protection of the natural habitat and ecology of the area. Recommendation: No change. Paragraph 6.44 refers to accessibility of public open spaces. A number of objectives refer indirectly to accessibility of GBI, green spaces and parks and public open space (Objectives 6.2, 6.18, 6.19) but do not have specific references to visually impaired people.
(ii) This submission asks for Clagheen Milcon Fen walk to be made a circular accessible walk for all abilities.
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(iii) The development of the city should enable people with sight loss to fully participate as independent citizens in society. Section 3.28 makes no reference to the provision of recreational sites and amenities suitable and accessible with people who are blind 99
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