Cork County Council looks to improve Kinsale's tourism and recreation offerings

Kinsale is set expand its tourism and recreation offerings with a second boules pitch and matting on two of its beaches to enhance accessibility for wheelchair users.

Local municipal district officer Brian Dunne said that following a request from Independent councillor Alan Coleman, the council’s area services team is to assess the feasibility of providing an additional boules pitch, either at the existing location or at a suitable alternative site.

“Discussions with the area services engineer are scheduled for late August to examine the proposal in detail, including potential location options and associated costs,” Mr Dunne said.

Meanwhile, he said the council has been examining options to further enhance accessibility at nearby Garrylucas and Garrettstown beaches through the installation of "bespoke matting" at the rear of the existing wheelchair access ramps.

“Quotations have been sought for the required materials, and assessments are ongoing regarding their suitability for use in the exposed coastal environment. 

Subject to the outcome of these assessments, it is intended to proceed with installation at the earliest opportunity. 

However, due to current supplier availability and lead times, it may be several weeks before the matting can be delivered and installed, Mr Dunne said.

The installation of the matting was proposed by Fine Gael councillor Marie O’Sullivan who said it is vital for access for people with mobility issues.

Mr Dunne said temporary toilets are to be installed in Kinsale and they'll be in place in the town before the end of August.

He then turned his attention to Bandon, where the council is working with the West Cork Development Partnership (WCDP) to develop a long-term vision for the town’s Clancool playground in consultation with the local community.

Mr Dunne said the move came following a request from Independent Ireland councillor John Collins, who had sought an upgrade.

The council has already agreed to put in nearly €2,000 for an initial upgrade.

However, Mr Dunne said in relation to the wider play area, further discussions are required to determine the future direction of the site and identify potential enhancement opportunities.

“To progress this work, meetings will take place later this year with representatives of WCDP and the council’s area services team to explore options and develop proposals in collaboration with the local community. 

“This collaborative approach will help ensure any future improvements reflect local needs, are achievable within available resources, and contribute to the long-term development of the amenity,” Mr Dunne said.