New town park to be created at base of Rock of Cashel
The transformation of the fields at the foot of the Rock of Cashel into a new town park heralds a new era for the community of Tipperary. Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, Cllr Declan Burgess, played a central role in the initiation of this project, symbolically turning the sod on Wednesday, June 25. This turning of the sod marks the beginning of a new chapter, as the fields near the iconic Rock of Cashel will soon be developed into a vibrant outdoor space to be enjoyed for generations.
The new Cashel Town Park is poised to bridge the gap between the Rock of Cashel and the Bishop’s Walk, leading to the back of the Cashel Palace Hotel. It will be a welcome addition to the town, offering a green space for residents and visitors alike to relax and unwind. Construction is set to commence in the late summer months, with a contractor set to work on-site for several months to bring this vision to life.
The project aims to preserve the existing Bishop’s Walk path while ensuring accessibility for all visitors. An elevated walkway will wind down the hillside, offering an alternative route that meets wheelchair accessibility standards. This boardwalk element will enhance the visitor experience, providing stunning views and a leisurely stroll for all who visit. Additional looped paths within the park will be made of reinforced grass, protecting the archaeology beneath while blending seamlessly with the pastoral landscape.
Phase one of the Cashel Town Park project will include resurfacing the access road to the Rock of Cashel with natural limestone paving. This enhancement will improve the approach to the historic site and provide a more welcoming environment for all who visit. Street furniture will be upgraded to further enhance the overall experience, ensuring that the park is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
The park’s landscape will feature gravel walkways, a picturesque boardwalk, reinforced grass paths, landscaping, natural play elements, seating, signage, and appropriate fencing. Each element has been thoughtfully designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape while ensuring the protection of the area’s unique features. The sensitive nature of the Cashel Town Park site, with its archaeological significance and historic structures, has guided the design process, ensuring that the integrity of these elements is preserved.
As the tender process nears completion, excitement is building for the beginning of construction in September. With the tourist season winding down, work on the park will soon be underway, bringing the vision of a vibrant community space to fruition. The new town park in Cashel is not just a physical transformation but a symbol of a community coming together to create a space that will be cherished for years to come.