Former Finisklin Landfill Remediation Works and Public Park Development

Description

The Proposed Development will consist of the remediation works and the development work associated with the construction of a new park located on the closed Finisklin Landfill site. The total area of the site will be 6.27ha, which the majority namely 4.8ha, will comprise of a new public park. The development can be split into two stages, the remediation works that been agreed with the EPA in accordance with requirements of CoA H0006-01 (CoA) and the development of a public park at the site. The proposed works will include the following remediation/site betterment works. • Installation of six (6No) biowindows, • Installation of one (1No) bioactive trench and • Increasing the thickness of the landfill capping layer within a localised portion of the Site. The installation of six biowindows and one bioactive trench will allow for active venting of landfill gas from the landfill. Monitoring chambers will be installed to allow for continual monitoring of landfill gas levels in the landfill in compliance with the CoA. The landfill capping works are necessary to increase the thickness of the capping layer throughout the site. This fulfils the conditions of the CoA. Also, it will create a layout which provides a visually and aesthetically pleasing context for exploration of the existing regenerating vegetation, which creates a distinct character and maximises views to the adjacent seascape and distant scenic landscape. The landscaping will encourage biodiversity and provide a low key natural and contextual area which maximises the existing stands of rejuvenating Willow and Gorse scrub to best effect in conjunction with existing on-site features such as extensive wildflower grassland areas. The provision of a public park will include the following. • 1,000m of a 3.5m wide walking track; • Construction of an 18m2 viewing platform; • Construction of a ca. 750 m2 car park, including 27No. of car parking spaces and 10No. of bicycle parking spaces; • Demolition of a 4m2 single story concrete block hut;(completed) • Modifications to the existing site entrance and provision of new gates; • Provision of a new pedestrian entrance; and, • Associated ancillary works including land grading, drainage works, landscaping, fencing and seating areas. The creation of public park will create a new public amenity in the area. The 3.5m wide pathway will allow for access to the site where the public will be able to enjoy the ecologically diverse habitats in the park including a wildflower meadow, the wading birds in the bay and views of Ben Bulben from the viewing deck. The installation of lighting will allow the park to be utilised all year round. Key seating areas form focal point resting and viewing areas. These have been strategically placed based on a considered review analysis of the site.