The views of people from across Armagh and Northern Ireland on the development of a new Palace Park have been unveiled.

 

Armagh City and District Council launched a far reaching consultation over the summer on the creation of a public park in the 51 hectare Palace Demesne, currently home to the Council offices and a major area of open space in the City.

 

Of the 225 responses gathered, many people said they thought creating new walking routes and providing a larger play park were the most important ways to develop the space, with significant numbers also indicating new cycle routes, tennis courts and a skateboarding area should be included in the new Palace Park.

 

Another top rating comment was that more concerts should be held in the new Park, with a large number of people also saying they thought a band stand, picnic area, mini farm or maze, should be made a priority in any plans.

 

Councillor Sylvia McRoberts, head of the panel overseeing the development, said: “The Council was very eager to get the views of as many ratepayers and visitors as possible. Over one thousand ‘have your say’ cards were distributed to schools and groups, as well as being sent to all Council facilities, attractions and accommodation providers.

 

“Users of the park were also surveyed, the majority of respondents being from the City and District, however responses were also gained from visitors Belfast, Cookstown, Dundalk, Kilkeel, Templepatrick, Carrickfergus, Peterborough and as far away as Australia. We’re pleased with the response we’ve had but will be going out for further consultation when the plans for the park are at a draft stage next year.”

 

Current users of the park were asked what aspect of the Park’s development they thought was most important.

 

The majority, over 53 per cent, said heritage, culture and art was most important, followed by 46 per of people who said the environment should be the most important factor in any future plans for the Demesne.

 

Other suggestions included using the Palace Stables’ courtyard for events such as summer evening concerts,  Christmas markets or antique fairs, and the establishment of the ‘history of trees’ horticultural event , the creation of a boating pond and tours of the Palace.

 

A £44,000 cash boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) announced before Christmas is being channeled into creating an ambitious blueprint for the development of the Park, which will be produced by the end of July 2008.

 

When this plan is complete, it will allow Armagh City and District Council to apply for the substantial funding needed to make the plans a reality, under the HLF’s Parks for People scheme.

 

A steering group, to include Councillors, community representatives and special interest groups, will be set up to assist in putting together plans for the Park together.