Accessible Public open space in Ashbourne is at a minimum, and for the most part is only in small pockets within housing estates.  With a population of approximately 20,000 people and growing, and according to the profile on Meath.ie there is nearly 1.5million people within a catchment area of a 45minute drive time, there is a need for a regional park.

I ask that the County Development Plan 2021-2027 makes provision for a Community Park of at least 80 acres. Based on Ashbourne’s population research on Health and Wellness benefits supports an 80-acre park at a minimum . Some examples:

• The Future Analytics report, commissioned by Playspaces Network, recommends 33.4 ha (80 acres).
• The World Health organization parameters give a recommendation of 160 acres.
• The formula in Dublin City Council’s Parks Strategy would recommend between 90 and 130 acres.
• The Fields in Trust (UK – used by >75% of Local Authorities) standard (6 acres per 1000 pop. comes out at 90 acres plus. All of the above assumes the Park serves a population of 15,000.

Current national strategies for climate action including active travel are advocating a reduction in car based travel.  At present to access a public park residents of Ashbourne need to travel by car to Malahide, Swords, Donabate, Ardgillan, or the Phoenix Park.  As a parent of a young family the requirment to travel outside Ashbourne to access a public park for fresh air and exercise is frustrating, not to mention that time spent travelling takes time away from time spent outdoors.

In terms of the economy of Ashbourne if people have to travel outside Ashbourne to a regional park any associated spend is lost to the economy of the locality

I fully support the provision of an 80acre park in Ashbourne