A big crowd turned out to mark the official opening of the new Kilkenny Countryside Park at Dunmore last Friday, December 15. This project sees the development of a new countryside park on the site of the closed municipal landfill at Dunmore which occupies an area of approximately 24 acres and is located just 5km north of Kilkenny city centre. The new park offers visitors three themed trails - the Mass Path Trail (starts at Dunmore) as well as an Accessibility Trail and Biodiversity Trail. The new park also provides a myriad of other attractions including two ball walls, a bespoke viewing area, play and exercise equipment and novel relaxing spaces that include hammocks, and loungers along with Kilkenny’ s first dedicated dog-friendly enclosure. Speaking at the event, Minister of State Malcom Noonan acknowledged the importance of outdoor recreation amenity spaces for peoples physical health and mental wellbeing. He noted his particular delight about the ethos of the new park in terms of the preservation, enhancement and awareness of the importance of biodiversity to society. Also speaking at the opening, Cllr Michael Doyle, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, noted that the transformation of the site 'is nothing short of remarkable, adding the construction of this park marks a new chapter in its history, turning what was once a negative on the landscape into a sanctuary that aims to restore and protect our natural environment and heritage'. He added it will elevate the appeal of our city and county, contributing to the 'Outdoor Kilkenny' brand and solidifying Kilkenny's status as a premier outdoor tourism destination. The new park, which was approved planning back in 2021, sees an investment of c. €1.2 million into Kilkenny’s newest large scale amenity offering. Also, speaking at the event, the Mayor of Kilkenny, Cllr Joe Malone, stated that the park 'marks another step in our ongoing efforts to position Kilkenny as a regional hub for outdoor recreation'. "Our commitment to maintaining
Kilkenny Countryside Park is now officially open - with so much to offer visitors!
Practicing their hurling skills with Minister of State Noonan at the new ball wall were Duiske College students Frankie Stafford, Senan Kelly and Killian Redmond
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Viewing area at the highest point within the new Kilkenny Countryside Park
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One of three trailheads providing information on the three themed walking routes within the new Kilkenny Countryside Park
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Invited guests at the official opening of the new Kilkenny Countryside Park
