Sligo Borough Council’s Parks Department is currently undertaking a major programme of capital works to develop and upgrade recreational facilities and amenity areas around Sligo City. Some of the major works currently in progress include:-
Work is progressing well on the development of Seaview Park with 70% of contract works now finished. The sand carpet pitch has been successfully seeded with almost 100% grass cover. The installation of the new multisports area is scheduled to be completed by the end of September 2006. The six acre park will be a high quality public recreational amenity and has been warmly welcomed by people interested in promoting and encouraging active and passive recreation in Sligo. When complete the facility will include a multi use games area, sand carpet pitch, extensive walking paths, seating, children’s natural play area, landscaped areas and wildlife zone.
Plans for the development of a new parkland amenity at Doorly Park are progressing well. It is intended that the park will accommodate a new playing pitch, Multi-Use Games Area, walkways/cycleway, seating, car park.
Project delivery will commence in October 2006 subject to the approval of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism.
A 12-lane Boules (Pétanque) court was officially opened at Mitchell Curley Park in May 2006. The new leisure amenity has added to the existing wide range of facilities at Mitchell Curley Park and ensures that facilities are available for all age groups and promotes the ethos of Sligo Borough Council and the Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership ie. ‘Active recreation for all’. Since the introduction of the new Boules facility the ‘Boulodrome’ is in regular use especially in the evenings and is much appreciated by a growing number of followers of the sport. The facility is free and open to everybody who would like to participate in this very popular family game. It is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get to know your neighbours in a friendly relaxed atmosphere
The parks department have completed the construction of the new playground at Cranmore. A new modern playground facility has been developed on site and the playground was officially opened on Saturday 9th September.
Part 8 planning permission has been granted for the proposed developments of two new recreational areas along Cartron foreshore. It is intended to develop two new areas for public amenity and recreation - a new promenade area along Sea View Drive and development of the site of the old swimming pool at Markievicz Road. The proposed development works include the provision of new paved areas, pedestrian walk ways, cycleways, landscaping, seating and public lighting. It is intended to commence works on site in October 2006.
A new tailor-made grave shoring system to enhance cemetery operatives safety during grave digging operations has been developed. The system has been designed and developed following extensive trials and consultations with industry experts. The telescopic shoring system has been designed by grave diggers for grave diggers, is very versatile and easily installed and removed from the excavation. All cemetery staff have been trained in the safe use of this equipment in accordance with best practice Health & Safety guidelines and the new safety systems are fully operational since July 2006.
Sligo Borough Council has provided a site for temporary accommodation to Sligo Rowing Club at Boat House Quay, Doorly Park. The introduction of regatta style rowing on the Garavogue by Sligo Rowing Club in association with Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership has been welcomed by many followers of this Olympic Sport. It appears that many people who have rowed in the past for Colleges and various Rowing Clubs are now participating in regular evening training sessions at Boat House Pier in Cleveragh.
Planning approval has been granted for the development of Cleveragh Regional Park.