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Home , Bog of Allen, County Kildare, Hempstown, Kildare County Council, Lyons Hill, Oughter Ard

14. Landscape, Recreation & Amenity

AIM

To provide for the protection, management and enhancement of the landscape of the county and to ensure that development does not disproportionately impact on the landscape character areas, scenic routes or protected views, through 14 the implementation of appropriate policies and objectives to ensure the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

306 County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 307 14.1 Background The Council will undertake a review of its Landscape Map 14.1 Character Assessment on foot of any actions from the Landscape Character Areas Landscape embraces all that is visible when one looks forthcoming National Landscape Character Assessment. across an area of land. As well as being an important part of people’s lives, giving individuals a sense of identity and belonging, landscape is the context in which all changes take place. 14.3 strategy

The landscape of comprises a central The natural diversity of the landscape, coupled with plain bounded to the east by the Kildare uplands, human interaction in the form of introduced features which lie at the foot-hills of the and such as hedgerows, woodlands, archaeological Mountains. The , the boglands of north-west monuments, settlements and buildings, all serve to Kildare and the fertile lowlands of the south all comprise give Kildare its distinctive characteristic landscape. part of the central plain. The plain lands are interrupted All development which takes place has the ability to by two groups of isolated hills, the Chair of Kildare and impact on this landscape, positively and negatively. It the Newtown Hills. The location of these hills within the is essential therefore that the landscape is protected central plain has a considerable impact on the landscape and managed in a sustainable and coherent manner. of Kildare. Inland waters comprise the , River A review of the Kildare County Development Plan Barrow, River Slate, , , Grand landscape provisions was undertaken to provide Canal and Rye Water River that traverse the county, a robust strategy which classifies the landscape of providing important landscape features. the county, appraises landscape sensitivity, making a judgement on sensitivity to change and taking into account historical, cultural, religious and other understandings of the landscape. 14.2 National Policy Context

The importance of landscape and visual amenity and 14.4 Landscape Character Assessment the role of planning in its protection are recognised in the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). In 2004, a Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) of the This requires that development plans include objectives county was undertaken and is contained in Volume II of for the preservation of landscape, views and prospects the Kildare County Development Plan 2005-2011. The and the amenities of places and features of natural LCA focused on characterisation i.e. the discernment beauty. It also provides for the designation of Landscape of the character of the landscape based on its land Conservation Areas (LCA), Areas of Special Amenity cover and landform, but also on its values, such as (ASA) and the assessment of landscape character. historical, cultural, religious and other understandings of the landscape. It concentrates on the distinctiveness In 2000, the Department of Environment, Heritage of different landscapes and on the sensitivity of that and Local Government issued Landscape Assessment landscape to development. Map 14.1 outlines the – Consultation of Guidelines for Planning Authorities indicative Landscape Character Areas of the county. (DEHLG, 2000). These seek to ensure that: Landscape Character Areas are areas that generally “the environment and heritage generally are maintained share the same characteristics. Minor or very small in a sustainable manner, while at the same time enabling distinctive features that arise from localised topographic a proactive approach to development”. circumstances – are outcrops, rivers, bogs, fens – are mapped [see map 14.1] as Subordinate Landscape Areas. In 2015, the Department of the Environment, Table 14.1 indicates the dominant sensitivity of each Community and Local Government issued A National Landscape Character Area. It is important to note that within each of these areas there can be a wide variety Landscape Strategy of 2015-2025, which states that: 14 of local conditions that can significantly increase or “Landscape Character Assessments will be prepared decrease sensitivity. Notwithstanding this observation, it at local and intra-local authority level, building on is possible to identify a dominant sensitivity within each the National Landscape Character Assessment, using area – as highlighted in Table 14.1. This is determined Landscape Character Assessment Guidelines. These by examining the presence/absence or dominance of V1.14.1 Landscape Character Areas regional and local landscape character assessments sensitivity factors within each area by using landscape 200/16/866 County Development Plan Oc All rights reserved. M.HF will inform and guide landscape policy, action plans sensitivity. The resulting classification is then used to Licence No.: 2009/26/CCMA (Kildare ) and local authority development plans.” produce an evidenced–based Landscape Sensitivity Map. This drawing is to be read in conjunction with the written statement

308 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 309 Table 14.1 Table 14.2 Landscape Sensitivity Classification to Landscape Character Areas Landscape Sensitivity Classification to Landscape Character Areas

Sensitivity of Principal Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4 Class 5 Sensitivity Landscape Character Area Location Description Landscape Character Assessment Low Medium High Special Unique (Dominant Sensitivity Outlined) Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity Sensitivity Class 1 North-Western Lowlands Areas with the capacity to generally Low Northern Lowlands accommodate a wide range of uses Sensitivity Central Undulating Lands without significant adverse effects North Western Lowlands Class 1 Southern Lowlands on the appearance or character of Northern Lowlands Class 1 the area.

Central Undulating Lands Class 1

Western Boglands Class 3 Class 2 Eastern Transition Lands Areas with the capacity to Southern Lowlands Class 1 Medium South-Eastern Uplands accommodate a range of uses Sensitivity without significant adverse effects on Eastern Transition Class 2 the appearance or character of the Eastern Uplands Class 3 landscape having regards to localised sensitivity factors. South-Eastern Uplands Class 2

Sub-ordinate Landscape Areas Class 3 Western Boglands Areas with reduced capacity Northern Hills Class 4 High Eastern Uplands to accommodate uses without Sensitivity significant adverse effects on the Chair of Kildare Class 4 appearance or character of the landscape having regard to prevalent The Curragh Class 5 sensitivity factors. Pollardstown Fen Class 5

Allen Bog Class 4 Class 4 Chair of Kildare Areas with low capacity to River Liffey Class 4 Special Northern Hills accommodate uses without River Liffey significant adverse effects on the Class 4 River Barrow appearance or character of the landscape having regard to special sensitivity factors. 14.4.1 Landscape Sensitivity

Based on the findings of the Landscape Character Class 5 The Curragh Areas with little or no capacity Assessment a landscape sensitivity rating was Unique Pollardstown Fen to accommodate uses without developed for each of the Landscape Character Areas. significant adverse effects on the Landscape sensitivity is a measure of the ability of appearance or character of the the landscape to accommodate change or intervention landscape having regard to unique without suffering unacceptable effects to its character and special sensitivity factors. and values. It is determined using the following factors: slope, ridgeline, water bodies, land use and prior development. The Landscape Character Areas 14 have been mapped according to their landscape sensitivity (Tables 14.1, 14.2 and Map 14.2 refer).

310 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 311 D r a w i n g N o : 2 0 / 9 3 6 D r a w n b y : M . H F M a p R e f : 1 4 . 2 S c e n i R o u t s M i x e d F o r s t N a t u r l G s n d G r e n U b a A s R i d g e l n s p N H A S c e n i V w p o t s S P A R i v e r B a o w n d L f y P e a t B o g s W a t e r B o d i s H i l t o p V e w s B r o a d L e v F s t M o r s a n d H e t h l S A C A g r i c u l t a L n d w h N a t u r l V e g i o n L e g n d S s i t v y F a c o r D a t e : F b r u y 2 0 1 7 S c a l e : N . T L a n d s c p e S i t v y A r

14 A r e a o f S n s i t v y L e g n d

312 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 313 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 314 14.4.2 Impact of Development and the principle landscape areas of the county Table 14.4 on Landscape classified by sensitivity. Table 14.4 identifies the Likely compatibility between a range of land-uses and proximity to Principal Landscape Sensitivity Factors. likely compatibility between a range of land-uses In order to determine the likely perceived impact and proximity of less than 300m to the principle of a particular development on the landscape, Landscape Sensitivity Factors. It should be noted 5 - Likely to be very compatible in most the potential impact of the development must that all developments are unique and at micro / circumstances. be viewed in light of the sensitivity of the area. local level landscapes vary in terms of their ability 4 - Likely to be compatible with reasonable care. Table 14.3 below provides guidance on the likely to absorb development and each site should be compatibility between a range of land-use classes assessed on its individual merits. 3 - Likely to be compatible with great care.

2 - Compatible only in certain circumstances. Table 14.3 Likely compatibility between a range of land-uses and Principle Landscape Areas. 1 - Compatible only in exceptional circumstances. 0 - Very unlikely to be compatible.

Compatibility Key Forestry and Agriculture Housing Urbanisation infrastructure Extraction Energy Proximity within 300m of Principal Landscape Most Sensitivity Factors. High Medium Low

Least Agriculture Forestry Housing Rural Urban Expansion Industrial Projects Projects Tourism Major Powerlines Sand and Gravel Rock Windfarm Solar Agriculture and and Agriculture Forestry Housing Urbanisation Infrastructure Extraction Energy

Principal Landscape Major Rivers and Water bodies 5 5 2 2 2 3 2 1 0 1 0 Character Areas Canals 5 5 2 2 2 3 2 1 0 1 1 Ridgelines 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 2 0 Green Urban Areas 4 5 2 0 0 4 3 3 3 2 2

Sensitivity Class Agriculture Forestry Housing Rural Urban Expansion Industrial Projects Projects Tourism * Major Powerlines Sand & Gravel Rock Windfarm Solar Broad-Leaved Forestry 3 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 3 1 2 North Western 1 Mixed Forestry 3 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 3 1 2 Lowlands Natural Grasslands 5 2 2 1 1 4 2 1 1 2 2 Northern Lowlands 1 Moors and Heathlands 2 2 1 0 0 1 2 1 0 2 1 Western Boglands 3 Agricultural Land with Natural Vegetation 5 5 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 2 Eastern Transition 2 Peat Bogs 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 1 Eastern Uplands 3 Scenic View 5 5 2 1 1 5 1 3 0 0 2 South-Eastern 2 Scenic Route 5 5 2 1 1 5 1 3 0 0 2 Uplands Sub-ordinate Landscape Areas

Northern Hills 4 Chair of Kildare 4 The Curragh 5 14 Pollardstown Fen 5 Allen Bog 4 River Liffey 4 River Barrow 4

* Major Powerlines are intended to include only those conveyed entirely on lattice towers – [i.e. 220kV and 400kV]

315 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 316 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 317 14.5 Areas of High Amenity 14.5.2 Pollardstown Fen 14.5.4 The Grand and Royal Canal 14.5.5 East Kildare Uplands Corridors In addition to Landscape Character Areas and the Pollardstown Fen is situated on the northern margin The Eastern Uplands are located in the east of the sensitivity of these areas to development, there are of the Curragh, approximately 3km west-north-west The and the Royal Canal are extensive county and are part of the Wicklow Mountain complex. certain special landscape areas within the county, of Newbridge. It lies in a shallow depression, running water corridors that flow through the county. The The topography rises from the lowland plains, through some of which overlap with sensitive landscapes. in a north-west/south-east direction. Pollardstown Grand Canal flows in an east to south-west direction undulating terrain to the highest point of 379m above For the purposes of this Plan these areas have been Fen is the largest remaining calcareous spring-fed fen and divides at into the and Corbally sea level (O. D.) at Cupidstownhill, east of . The defined as Areas of High Amenity. They are classified in Ireland. Covering an area of 220 ha, it is recognised Branch, and is further divided in three branches elevated nature of this area provides a defined skyline because of their outstanding natural beauty and/or as an internationally important fen ecosystem with at Robertstown; the Milltown Feeder, the Barrow with scenic views over the central plains of Kildare and unique interest value and are generally sensitive to the unique and endangered plant communities. From Line and the continuation of the Grand Canal into the neighbouring Wicklow Mountain which further impacts of development. These areas are outlined in a landscape point of view, the unique vegetation neighbouring . define the skyline and the extent of visibility. The East the following sub-sections. and the low-lying nature of the area allows for Kildare Uplands are rural in character with a number of extensive vistas of the site along the local roads, as The Royal Canal flows in an east to west direction scenic views from elevated vantage points. The general well as to the hilltops in the vicinity (e.g. The Hill along the northern boundary of the county through land use on the uplands is pasture, with some tillage, 14.5.1 The Curragh and Environs of Allen). Consequently, development can have a , and and continues into quarrying and forestry. disproportionate visual impact in the local context, . The Curragh, located between Newbridge and Kildare due to an inherent inability to be visually absorbed by Along a number of roads, which cross the upper and Town, is the largest area of unenclosed natural The canal corridors and their adjacent lands have the existing topography. lower slopes of the uplands, there are long-distance grassland in the country and provides a valuable been landscaped and enhanced along the sections views towards the Kildare lowlands and the Chair amenity area for the surrounding towns of Kildare, where the canals flow through urban areas. Canal of Kildare. The sloping land provides this area with locks are distinctive features of these water corridors. Newbridge and . The Curragh Camp and the 14.5.3 The River Liffey and the River its distinctive character and intensifies the visual are located within the plain. The smooth terrain, generally gentle landform and Barrow Valleys prominence and potential adverse impact of any low canal bank grassland that characterise the canal feature over greater distances. Slope also provides The Curragh constitutes a unique national asset from The River Liffey and River Barrow valleys are of corridors allow vistas over long distances without an increased potential for development to penetrate the point of view of landscape and geomorphology significance in terms of landscape and amenity value disruption, where the canal flows in a straight-line primary and secondary ridgelines when viewed from which extends over 2000 hectares and is a historic and as such are sensitive to development. They are direction. Consequently, development can have lower areas. In the Eastern Kildare Uplands, nearly open plain of high conservation value. Extensive characterised by smooth terrain and low vegetation, a disproportionate visual impact along the water all ridgelines are secondary when viewed from the views can be obtained from the south-east of the site, with extensive upland views (i.e. the Chair of Kildare corridor and it can prove difficult for the existing lowland areas, as the to the at St. Ledgers Bottoms, around much of the perimeter to the west and the Eastern Uplands to the east) and topography to visually absorb development. The east define the skyline (i.e. form primary ridgelines). of the site. The sense of openness has been diminished distant views including the neighbouring Wicklow occurrence of natural vegetation, coniferous and Gently undulating topography and shelter vegetation over the years with the development of the military Mountains. The topography is such that it allows mixed plantations adjacent to the water corridors can provided by conifer and woodland plantation can camp, the racecourse complex, the railway, the new vistas over long distances without disruption along have shielding and absorbing qualities in landscape provide a shielding of built form. Views of the River motorway and power lines. the river corridor. As a result development on the terms, by providing natural visual barriers. Liffey Valley as well as of the Reservoir banks of the rivers can have a disproportionate visual The Curragh is of conservation value for a number of Canal corridors are potentially vulnerable linear are available from the hilltops and high points on impact, due to an inherent inability to be visually reasons. It is most unusual in an Irish and European landscape features, as they are often highly some of the local roads. absorbed. However, the undulating topography context, in that it is an extensive open plain area of distinctive in the context of the general landscape. occurring within the river valleys provides physical lowland acidic grassland, succeeding to dry heath In some cases landscape sensitivities may be shielding and has the potential to visually enclose the in places. It has been grazed but unfertilised for localised or site-specific. hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of years. Due built form within the river valley, where it does not 14.6 Scenic Routes and to the management regime on the open grassland, break the skyline. Shelter vegetation exists along some pRotected Views nationally important populations of rare fungi are stretches of the valleys with the presence of natural Scenic routes and protected views consist of found which only occur in ancient grasslands. and native woodland that grows on the floodplains of the rivers, as well as by conifer plantation in adjacent important and valued views and prospects within Land-use at the Curragh is dominated by sheep lands. This vegetation has a shielding and absorbing the county. Table 14.5 lists the specific scenic routes grazing on the open plains, which are commonage. quality in landscape terms. It can provide a natural which provide views of the landscape of the county Horse exercising and training are carried out on the visual barrier as well as adding to the complexity of a and many built and archaeological features. Maps many gallops. There is a military range at the south vista, breaking it up to provide scale and containment 14.2 and 14.3 also outline the scenic routes within the east of the Curragh where target practice is regularly for built forms. county. In addition to scenic routes there are a number 14 carried out. of protected views throughout the county. These are Many views of the river valleys are available from located particularly along water corridors and to and local roads and from viewing points located along from the hills in the countryside. the valleys. While river valleys represent potentially vulnerable linear landscape features, as they are The Council recognises the need to protect the often highly distinctive in the context of the general character of the county by protecting views and scenic landscape, in certain circumstances landscape routes. However, it is acknowledged that in certain sensitivities may be localised or site-specific. circumstances, some development may be necessary.

318 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 319 Table 14.5 Scenic Routes in County Kildare

No Description Location

1 Views of , from N78 Motorway Interchange to Knockbounce, Old Kilcullen, Hacklow, South of Moortown House Halverstown

2 Views to the East of Yellowbogcommon, from N9 Motorway Yellowbogcommon, Glebe South Interchange to Halverstown Cross Roads 3 Views of Curragh Plains, from the M7 Interchange to St. Ledgers St. Ledgers Bottoms, Curragh Bottoms 4 Views of Curragh Plains including Little Curragh; County Road Curraghfarm, Strawhall, Curragh, Little from Kildare Town Boundary to Military Ranges, R413 from Curragh Kildare Town Boundary to Motorway Interchange 5 Views of Moat and Ardscull, N78 from Russelstown Cross Roads Tullygorey, Aghanure, Ardscull, to Youngstown 6 Views of Robertstown Countryside and Views across the Canal Mylerstown, Lowtown, Littletown, Derrymullen, Robertstown East 7 Views of Lake; N81 from Poulaphouca Bridge to Bishopslane, Crosscoolharbour, In this regard, appropriate location, siting and design Tables 14.6-14.10 identify the protected views to and County Boundary at Bishopslane and from County Boundary at Pipershall, , Common Glebe criteria should strictly apply. All proposals will be from the Royal and Grand Canal and to and from the Glashina to County Boundary at Glebe East, Glemore, Barrettstown assessed taking into account the overall character of River Liffey, River Barrow and Rye River. 8 Views of Bogland Plains; L3002 from Kilmoney Cross Roads to Bostoncommon, Drinnastown, the scenic route and the character of the landscapes Feighcullen Cross Roads at Boston Hill Kilmoney North through which the route passes, in accordance with the criteria outlined in section 14.4.2. 14.6.2 Views to and from Hills 9 Views of River Liffey; R411 Liffey Bridge at to Broadleas Commons, Bishopsland Cross Roads Boundary at Silverhill Upper As the landform of the county is generally flat, with 10 Views of the West Plains on the Oughterard Road (L2009) Bishopscourt Lower, Boston very little variation in topography and predominantly 14.6.1 Views to and from the county’s low vegetation, extensive views can be obtained from 11 Views of the Upland Areas on the Oughterard Road (L6018) Pluckerstown, Oughterard, waterways: Grand Canal, Royal hilltops, allowing vistas over long distances, and Castlewarden North Canal, River Liffey, River Barrow similarly from the lowland areas the eye is drawn to 12 Views West of Kildare Plains from Redbog Area and Views Greenmount, Redbog, Pipershall, and the Rye Water River. the primary and secondary ridgelines that define the towards Caureen; from Rathmore Cross Roads to Pipershall Rathmore West River floodplains and canal banks are generally skyline throughout the county. 13 Views to the River Liffey on the R413 from Brannockstown Cross Rochestown, Gaganstown, Ardenode sensitive to development to varying degrees. Both Ridgelines are conspicuous features of the natural Roads to Ballymore Eustace. East Cross Roads to Ballymore Eustace, the rivers and the canal corridors provide a contrast landscape as they perform an important role as Ballymore Eustace West of form and colour on the landscape. The widths of dominant landscape focal points. It is important 14 Views to and from Red Hill and Views of Central Kildare Plains Redhill, Loughandys, Water Grange, rivers and canals vary throughout their corridors and that development does not interrupt the integrity of and Boglands on the R401 and adjoining Roads Knocknagalliagh, Rathwalkin with that the visual amenity also varies. In some areas ridgelines. Development on steeply sloping land can the vegetation along the banks of water corridors be viewed over greater distances. 15 Views to and from Dunmurray and Views of Central Kildare Kilmoney South, Carrickanearla, has been cleared and pasturelands characterise the Plains and Boglands on the R401 and adjoining roads Guidenstown, Dunmurray surrounding landscape while at other points debris and vegetation cover the banks. Debris material affects 16 Views of Chair of Kildare and Views of Central Kildare Plains and Grange Common, Blakestown, both the quality of the waters and the scenic views at Boglands on the R415 and adjoining roads Conlanstown, Canonstown, 14.7 Advertising in the 14 some locations. Carrickanearla countryside 17 Views of Kildare Plains and Boglands from Dunbyrne, Barncrow, Baronstown West Urban and rural development has taken place along The proliferation of signs and hoardings in the some sections of the canals and rivers, interrupting 18 Views from South/South-East Side of the Hill of Allen on the Barnacrow countryside detracts from the visual amenity of the the integrity of these linear landscape features and Milltown/Allen Road; R415 from Baronstown Barnacrow to Kildare rural landscape. This signage is a distraction to in some cases significantly affecting their scenic Allen cross roads road users and may constitute a traffic hazard. amenity value. It is important that development 19 Views of Canal, River Slate and Surrounding Countryside from Bonaghmore, Kilmoney North, does not further interrupt the integrity of river and R414 at Rathangan Mullantine, Mount Prospect, Newtown canal corridors.

320 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 321 Table 14.6 Table 14.8 20 Views of Plains of Kildare and West Central Boglands. Views to Newtown, Grange, Kilbridge, Views of the River Liffey from Bridges Views of the River Barrow from bridges, adjacent and from Newtown Hills (including county roads 5027, 1007) Ovidstown, Killickaneeny, lands and roads Nicholastown. View Bridge Townland/Location 21 Views to and from Corballis Hills; County Roads from Carrigeen Corballis, Tankardstown, Ballynacarrick Reference View Bridge Townland / Location to Sherrifhill Cross Roads Upper/ Lower, Sherrifhill, Alymerstown Reference 22 Views to the North-West of the Open Countryside; from Kilteel Furryhill, Kilteel Lower, Rathmore East RL 1 Leixlip Bridge Leixlip RB 1 Greese Bridge Jerusalem Village to Rathmore Village Newtownpilsworth RL 2 Coneyburrow 23 Views East at Brewel; L413 from Kingland Castle Ruins to Brewel East, Ballintaggart RB 2 Maganey Bridge Maganey Lower Ballintaggart RL 3 Bridge Celbridge RB 3 Tankardstown Bridge Grangemellon 24 Views across the Barrow Valley; L397 from Pinhill cross roads to Burton Big, Ballinadrum, Glassely RL 4 Bridge Lodgepark Straffan Burton cross roads RB 4 Bert Bridge Tyrellstown RL 5 Alexandra Bridge Abbeyland 25 Views to the North-West of Kildare Plains; N78 South of Moortown, Thomastown, Ballyshannon, RB 5 Dunrally Bridge Lowtown Moortown House to Tippeenan Lower. Tippeenan Lower RL 6 Millicent Bridge Castlesize RB 6 Pass Bridge Passlands 26 Views to and from Hughestown Hill (L8052) Hughestown, Carrigeen Hill, RL 7 Bridge Halverstown/ Ballynacarrick Lower, Davidstown Gingerstown RB 7 Mill Bridge 27 Views to the south of open countryside; from L138 Kilmeague Kilmeague, Coolaght RL 8 Victoria Bridge Moortown/ RB 8 Baylough Bridge cross roads to Coolaght Yeomanstown

RL 9 New Bridge Droichead Nua 28 Views from county roads (L5017 & L26) of Carbury Castle and Calfstown, Mylerstown, Knockcor, Table 14.9 (Newbridge) Hill: Teelough road junction with the R402 and upland area at Carbury, Coolcor. Views to and from bridges on the Grand Canal Mylerstown RL 10 Athgarvan Bridge Rosetown/Athgarvan 29 Views of countryside and East Kildare Uplands from Bishopshill Carrigeen, Barrettstown RL 11 Kilcullen Bridge Kilcullen View Bridge Townland / Location Commons Reference RL 12 New Bridge Cramersvalley/Carnalway 30 Within Carton Demesne Walls: Views to and from , Carton the Lake and Woodland Areas RL 13 Ballymore Bridge Ballymore Eustace GC1 Old Grange Bridge Old Grange 31 Views within Castletown - Donaghcumper Rural Area; Views to Castletown, Barrogstown, Barnhall, GC2 Henry Bridge Clonaghris the South and North from , including axial Rinawade, Crodaun GC3 Ponsonby Bridge Barrowrath views to the Obelisk and the Wonderful Barn. Table 14.7 Views of the Rye Water River from Bridges GC4 Devonshire Bridge Sherlockstown 32 Views of the River Liffey from the main avenue of Castletown Castletown Common House View Bridge Townland / Location GC5 Digby Bridge Aghpaudeen 33 Views to and from the Ridgeline on the East Kildare Uplands Cromwellstownhill, Cupidstown Hill, Reference and Views of the Central Plains Rathbane, Punchestown, Caureen, GC6 Landenstown Bridge Landenstown Hempstown RW1 Black Bridge Kellystown / GC7 Connaught Bridge Newtown Common, Pipershall, Crosscoolharbour Blakestown GC8 Cock Bridge 34 Views towards , Liffey Valley, Clonaghlis and Barberstown Lower, Ardrass Upper, RW2 Carton Bridge Carton Demesne Oughterard; R403 from Barberstown Cross Roads to Saint Castledillon Lower, Friarstown GC9 Bonynge Bridge Mouds RW3 Sandfords Bridge Carton Demesne Patrick’s Hill GC10 Binn’s Bridge Robertstown 35 Views of Dún Ailinne from the N78 - to Knockbounce Moortowncastle, Moortown, Old RW4 Kildare Bridge Carton Demesne GC11 Fenton Bridge Lowtown Kilcullen, Glebe North, Knockaulin, GC12 Bond Bridge Derrymullen Knockbounce GC13 Hamilton’s Bridge Killinagh Lower 36 Views of the Gibbet Rath and the Curragh from the N7 at St. St. Ledgers Bottoms 14 Ledgers Bottoms GC14 Ticknevin Bridge Ticknevin 37 Views of Pollardstown Fen GC15 Harberton Bridge Littletown 38 Views of Allenwood to Local Road GC16 New Bridge Littletown 39 Views of Lullymore to Rathangan Local Road GC17 Skew Bridge Ballyteige North

40 Views of Ballynafagh Lake GC18 Huband Bridge Grangeclare West GC19 Pim Bridge Newpark

322 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 323 GC20 Pluckerstown Bridge Pluckerstown GC21 Milltown Bridge Milltown GC22 Ballyteige Bridge Ballyteige GC23 Glenaree Bridge Glenaree GC24 Rathangan Bridge Rathangan GC25 Wilson’s Bridge Kiltaghan North GC26 Ummeras Bridge Ummeras More GC27 Aylmer Bridge Kearneystown Upper GC28 High Bridge Old Grange GC29 Milltown Bridge Moatstown GC30 Tandy Bridge Naas GC31 Abbey Bridge Naas GC32 Ploopluck Bridge Naas GC33 Bridge Naas GC34 Milltown Old Bridge GC35 Clogheen Bridge GC36 Bunberry Bridge

Table 14.10 Views to and from all bridges on the Royal Canal

View Bridge Townland / Location Reference RC1 Bailey’s Bridge Maws RC2 Cope Bridge Newtown/Leixlip RC3 Louisa Bridge Easton/Leixlip RC4 Deey Bridge Collinstown RC5 Pike Bridge Railpark/Donaghmore RC6 Mullen Bridge Railpark/Maynooth Legend RC7 Bond Bridge Maynooth RC8 Jackson’s Bridge Laraghbryan East RC9 Chambers Bridge Maws RC10 Shaw Bridge Kilcock

RC11 Allen Bridge Boycetown 14 Scenic Routes and Viewpoints M.HF

324 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 325 14.8 POLICIES: General Landscape 14.8.2 Lowland Plains and Boglands LU 3 Facilitate, where appropriate, developments WC 2 Facilitate appropriate development that can Character Area that have a functional and locational utilise existing structures, settlement areas 14.8.1 General Landscape requirement to be situated on steep and infrastructure, whilst taking account It is the policy of the Council to: or elevated sites (e.g. reservoirs, of the visual absorption opportunities It is the policy of the Council to: LL 1 Recognise that the lowlands are made telecommunication masts or wind energy provided by existing topography and structures) where residual adverse visual vegetation. LA 1 Ensure that consideration of landscape up of a variety of working landscapes, impacts are minimised or mitigated. sensitivity is an important factor in which are critical resources for WC 3 Control development that will adversely determining development uses. In areas sustaining the economic and social well- LU 4 Maintain the visual integrity of areas which affect the visual integrity of distinctive of high landscape sensitivity, the design, being of the county. have retained a largely undisturbed upland linear sections of water corridors and river type and the choice of location of proposed LL 2 Continue to permit development that can character. valleys and open floodplains. development in the landscape will also be utilise existing structures, settlement areas critical considerations. LU 5 Have regard to the potential for screening WC 4 Co-operate with the DHPCLG/DAHRRGA and infrastructure, whilst taking account vegetation when evaluating proposals for in the protection and conservation of both LA 2 Protect and enhance the county’s landscape, of the visual absorption opportunities development within the uplands. the Royal and Grand Canals and the River by ensuring that development retains, provided by existing topography and Barrow, designated as a pNHA and cSAC protects and, where necessary, enhances vegetation. respectively and in the sections of the River the appearance and character of the existing LL 3 Recognise that this lowland landscape 14.8.4 Eastern Transition Liffey designated as a pNHA. local landscape. character area includes areas of significant It is the policy of the Council to: WC 5 Promote the amenity, ecological and LA 3 Require a Landscape/Visual Impact landscape and ecological value, which are educational value of the canals and rivers TA 1 Maintain the visual integrity of areas which Assessment to accompany significant worthy of protection. within the county while at the same time have retained an upland character. proposals that are likely to significantly affect: LL 4 Recognise that intact boglands are critical ensuring the conservation of their fauna −− Landscape Sensitivity Factors; natural resources for ecological and TA 2 Recognise that the lowlands in the and flora, and protection of the quantity and −− A Class 4 or 5 Sensitivity Landscape environmental reasons. transitional area are made up of a variety quality of the water supply. of working landscapes that are critical (i.e. within 500m of the boundary); WC 6 Support and promote an extension of the LL 5 Recognise that cutaway and cut-over resources for sustaining the economic and −− A route or view identified in maps proposed Special Amenity Area Order for boglands represent degraded landscapes social well-being of the county. 14.2 and 14.3 (i.e. within 500m of the and/or brownfield sites and thus are the Liffey Valley from Lucan to Leixlip boundary). potentially robust to absorb a variety of TA 3 Continue to permit development that can (which is envisaged by the Dublin Local LA 4 Seek to ensure that local landscape features, appropriate developments. utilise existing infrastructure, whilst taking Authorities) to other parts of the Valley including historic features and buildings, account of local absorption opportunities within County Kildare. hedgerows, shelter belts and stone walls, provided by the landscape, landform and WC 7 Explore the establishment of the Barrow are retained, protected and enhanced where prevailing vegetation. 14.8.3 Upland Character Areas Valley and the Royal and Grand Canals as appropriate, so as to preserve the local including East Kildare Uplands TA 4 Continue to facilitate appropriate Areas of Special Amenity, as per section 202 landscape and character of an area, whilst (Area of High Amenity) development, in an incremental and of the Planning and Development Act 2000 providing for future development. It is the policy of the Council to: clustered manner, where feasible, that (as amended). LA 5 Prohibit advertising structures and respects the scale, character and sensitivities WC 8 Contribute towards the protection hoardings in the open countryside. The LU 1 Ensure that development will not have of the local landscape, recognising the need of waterbodies and watercourses, Council will use its enforcement powers a disproportionate visual impact (due to for sustainable settlement patterns and including rivers, streams, associated under the Planning Acts to secure the excessive bulk, scale or inappropriate siting) economic activity within the county. undeveloped riparian strips, wetlands and removal of unauthorised advertising signs and will not significantly interfere with or natural floodplains, from inappropriate and hoardings including those that are detract from scenic upland vistas, when development. This will include buffers free affixed to trailers, wheeled vehicles etc. viewed from areas nearby, scenic routes, 14.8.5 Water Corridors (Rivers and of development in riverine and wetland viewpoints and settlements. Canals) (Areas of High Amenity) LA 6 Preserve, where permissible, the open areas, as appropriate. character of commonage. LU 2 Ensure that developments on steep slopes It is the policy of the Council to: (i.e. >10%) will not be conspicuous or have WC 9 Have regard to the relevant aspects of 14 LA 7 Be informed by consideration of the County a disproportionate visual impact on the WC 1: Seek to locate new development in the the Inland Fisheries Ireland’s publication Landscape Character Appraisal. surrounding environment as seen from water corridor landscape character areas ‘Planning for Watercourses in an Urban relevant scenic routes, viewpoints and towards existing structures and mature Environment’. settlements. vegetation.

326 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 327 14.8.6 The Curragh and Environs (Area 14.9 Scenic Routes and of High Amenity) pRotected Views It is the policy of the Council to: 14.9.1 Scenic Routes CU 1 Restrict development, particularly on the It is the policy of the Council to: Curragh edge, or where it obtrudes on the skyline as viewed from the Curragh Plains SR 1 Protect views from designated scenic routes and to avoid the over development of the by avoiding any development that could edge of the Curragh. disrupt the vistas or disproportionately impact on the landscape character of the CU 2 Ensure that fencing, earth works or planting area, thereby affecting the scenic and do not conflict with the intrinsic quality of amenity value of the views. the landscape. SR 2 Review and update all Scenic Routes and CU 3 Co-operate with all relevant stakeholders Views in the county during the lifetime of including the Department of Defence, the Plan (Tables 14.5 – 14.10 refer). the DHPCLG, the racehorse industry, the owners of sheep grazing rights and the various interests currently with rights to the Curragh in the review of the protection 14.9.2 Water Course and Canal and conservation of the Curragh, designated Corridor Views as a pNHA. It is the policy of the Council to:

CU 4 Restrict the development of vertical WV 1 Curtail any further development along structures within the Curragh Plains the canal and river banks that could including advertising signs, hoardings, cumulatively affect the quality of a fencing etc. which create visual clutter and designated view. disrupt the open nature of the Plains. WV 2 Preserve and enhance the scenic amenity 14.10 OBJECTIVES: Landscape LO 6 Preserve and protect the character of those of the river valleys and canal corridors views and prospects obtainable from scenic It is an objective of the Council to: 14.8.7 Pollardstown Fen (Area of High and the quality of the vistas available from routes identified in this Plan, listed in Table Amenity) designated views. LO 1 Have regard to the Landscape Sensitivity 14.5 and identified on Map 14.3. Factors in the vicinity of sites in It is the policy of the Council to: WV 3 Prevent inappropriate development along LO 7 Encourage appropriate landscaping and canal and river banks and to preserve the consideration of any significant screen planting of developments along PF 1 Restrict development within the immediate these areas in the interests of biodiversity, development proposals. scenic routes. Where scenic routes run environs of the Fen which may have a built and natural heritage and amenity by LO 2 Ensure landscape assessment will be an through settlements, street trees and negative impact on the water quality and creating or maintaining buffer zones, where important factor in all land-use proposals. ornamental landscaping may also be water quantity of the Fen. development should be avoided. required. LO 3 Investigate the feasibility of preparing a PF 2 Co-operate with the DHPCLG / Landscape Conservation Area Assessment LO 8 Prepare further detailed guidance in DAHRRGA and other statutory bodies within the county to identify any area(s) or relation to views and prospects available in the protection and conservation of place(s) within the county as a Landscape along scenic routes occurring within the the Fen, a designated pSAC, and the Conservation Area, in accordance with the boundaries of Local Area Plans. immediate environs of the Fen. Planning and Development Act 2000 (as LO 9 Plant gateway roundabouts within the PF 3 Promote the amenity, ecological and amended). county with innovative design themes, educational value of the Pollardstown LO 4 Protect the visual and scenic amenities having regard to traffic safety. Fen Area. 14 of County Kildare’s built and natural LO 10 Review and update the County Landscape environment. Character Assessment in accordance LO 5 Preserve the character of all important with all relevant legislation and guidance views and prospects, particularly upland, documents and to ensure consistency river, canal views, views across the Curragh, with the forthcoming National Landscape views of historical or cultural significance Character Assessment. (including buildings and townscapes) and LO 11 Prepare a Historic Landscape views of natural beauty. Characterisation of the county.

328 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 329 24,300 ha of peatland cover 14.4% of the county. 14.11.4 Recreation and Amenity Of the total bog cover, 10% remains intact, 39% is 14.11 Recreation and Amenities Access to opportunities for recreation and amenity is under industrial peat extraction, 25% consists of an important consideration in improving quality of cutover and cutaway bog and 24% is modified fen Aim life. This is likely to become more significant as the area. Some of these boglands are used for recreation/ population increases and land becomes more valuable education purposes such as the Nature To develop recreation areas and the amenities and pressure from competing land uses becomes more Centre in Lullymore, operated by the Irish Peatland intense. of County Kildare in an equitable, environmental Conservation Council and Lullymore Heritage Park. and sustainable way. Local networks of high quality, well managed and (ii) Cycling maintained open spaces, sports and recreational Cycling as a means of recreational activity has facilities help to enhance the urban environment and increased in popularity over the past number of years. should be planned to be easily accessible to all. The Council acknowledges that provision for cyclists should be provided as resources permit and where (i) Open Space appropriate. New development of housing and / or commercial It is recognised that the countryside of Kildare development influences the need for new sports and 14.11.1 Background (iii) Walking provides an important resource in outdoor outdoor community facilities. The zoning of land Recreation and amenity areas within the county Two long distance walking routes are located recreational facilities not only for the population for “open space” is an important element of land-use include natural, recreational and sporting amenities along the Grand Canal and Royal Canal. Both are of Kildare but also for those visiting the county. planning and should be provided within development as well as social and community infrastructure. These scheduled for improvement in the coming years. The Council recognises the significance of natural plans and Local Area Plans as appropriate. facilities provide many cultural, social, economic Arthur’s Way walking route has also been developed amenities as a major resource for visitors and and environmental benefits and provide a positive between Leixlip and Oughterard. A development The Kildare Open Space Strategy was prepared in July local people. contribution towards quality of life. The provision of a by the Council under Part 8 of the Planning and 2011. It identified a hierarchy of open space within the range of amenities which can cater for the demands of The “National Countryside Recreation Strategy” was Development Act 2000 (as amended) has been county, including three categories of open space types, an increasing population and which will be accessible finalised in 2006. It defines the scope, vision and approved to provide a long distance walking route which will influence future open space provision in for all sectors and age groups of the population a suggested framework for the implementation of along the Royal Canal between Maynooth and Kildare (Table 14.12 Refers) is a central element in the delivery of sustainable countryside recreation as agreed by Comhairle Moyvalley. It is proposed to develop a section of the This strategy includes an audit of facilities currently communities. na Tuaithe. This strategy informed Kildare Sports Grand Canal between Lowtown and and the available and an assessment of current and future Partnership in the preparation of the sports and River Barrow between Athy and the county boundary needs within the county. Recommendations are recreation Strategic Plan 2012-2016 for physical as part of the Barrow Blueway. Other shorter routes outlined for the current and future open space 14.11.2 Strategy recreation in County Kildare. are located mainly in urban settings, comprising requirements for villages and towns in the county and heritage trails and Slí na Sláinte routes1. The strategies for the provision of recreation and will form an important input into the preparation of (i) Forest Parks, Woodlands & Boglands amenity resources in the county seeks; There are a number of demesne lands within the future Local Area Plans. Approximately 9,200 ha of land in Kildare is under −− To provide an opportunity for all sectors of county which are open to the public for passive forest cover. Forests and woodlands provide benefits The provision of accessible open space is an Kildare’s population, and visitors to the county, to recreation, for example Castletown in Celbridge. over and above the revenue yielded from timber and integral part of the provision of high-quality green avail of good quality recreational, sports and open other wood based products. These include recreational infrastructure for communities. Overall, the Council space facilities, suitable to their needs; The eastern uplands, the boglands, the water corridors and tourism amenities for local communities. Table and disused railway lines coupled with a rich natural, will seek the provision of open space at a standard of −− To ensure that the natural resources which form 14.11 outlines recreational woodlands in the county. architectural and built heritage provide excellent 2.0 ha per 1000 population in accordance with the the basis for countryside recreation are protected opportunities to develop further long distance routes Kildare Open Space Strategy 2011. and effectively managed; and (cycling/walking). County Kildare Walking Routes Project Table 14.11 −− To provide and maintain facilities in an conducted an audit of walking routes in the county in Recreational Woodlands in County Kildare economically and environmentally sustainable 2005. It evaluated existing walking routes and made manner. Name Location Owner recommendations for their future management and promotion. 14.11.3 Countryside Recreation Forest Park Donadea Coillte (iv) Public Rights of Way 14 Countryside recreation includes a wide range of Moore Abbey Coillte Existing public rights of way constitute an important activities including horse riding, cycling, walking, Mullaghreelan Wood Coillte amenity and the Council recognises the importance of picnicking, country drives, off-road biking, nature maintaining established rights of way and supporting trails, bird watching, painting, photography, field Rahin Coillte initiatives for establishing walking routes and general studies, orienteering, para- and hang-gliding, rock Kilinthomas Rathangan Coillte accessibility. climbing, adventure sports, camping, archaeological guided walks and water related activities which include swimming, boating, canoeing and kayaking. 1 Developed in co-operation with the Irish Heart Foundation, the HSE, Kildare Sports Partnership and local communities.

330 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 331 Table 14.12 (v) Sports and Recreational Facilities −− To ensure that children’s play needs are met Hierarchy of Open Space in County Kildare. The development of sport and recreation is important through the development of a child-friendly in encouraging a sense of wellbeing and social environment; County hierarchy Typology Purpose contact. acknowledges the −− To give children a voice in the design and of open space very important roles that open space and sporting implementation of play policies and facilities; and provision and social clubs play in enhancing the social and recreational life of Kildare’s communities. Facilities −− To maximise the range of public play opportunities Areas of open space Amenity green Small areas of open space associated with housing for both formal and informal recreation, and catering available to all children, particularly children who within settlements space developments. for the entire community of all abilities, are required. are marginalised, disadvantaged or who have a disability. Local Park Small Park ( >2ha) located within settlements for local use for The Council has prepared an audit of sports facilities passive recreation. in the county. The audit of arts and community Playgrounds have been provided in Rathangan, facilities within the county has to be completed. This , Nurney, Ellistown and assistance has Neighbourhood Large Park (> 16ha) located within settlements for local use audit will influence the future provision of sports and been given for the provision of a playground in Park to contain facilities for active recreation. recreational facilities in the county. Castlemitchell. Playgrounds are planned for Kill and Sallins. The Council will seek to develop a Play Areas of open space Regional Park Large areas, corridors, or networks of open space, the The Council will endeavour, through this Plan and Policy for the county which will guide the provision that serve a number majority of which will be publicly accessible and will provide the Development Management process, to provide and development of play opportunities within the of settlements a range of facilities and features offering recreational, appropriate land for recreational and amenity open county over the lifetime of this Plan. The Council also ecological, landscape, cultural or green infrastructure space. This land shall be available to the public, acknowledges Teenspace - The National Recreation Policy benefits. and generally in or adjacent to areas of existing for Young People (2007). The policy seeks to address the or zoned residential use, or close to centres of recreational needs of young people between the ages Strategic Areas of Country Park Large facility of high scenic quality accessible to the public to rural communities. Kildare County Council will of 12 and 18. open space within which users may travel some distance by car usually seeking continue to liaise with sporting organisations to the county a family day out. ensure that where possible the needs of sports The policy’s core objectives are: clubs and the communities are met in the provision −− To give young people a voice in the design, Green corridors Linear green spaces such as canal and river corridors which of quality facilities. implementation and monitoring of recreation are accessible to the public. The Council will generally favour developments policies and facilities; Natural/semi Areas of undeveloped or previously developed land with which seek to cluster sporting activities and integrate −− Promote organised activities for young people and natural green habitats such as woodland or wetland areas which are them with community facilities, including schools, to examine ways to motivate them to be involved; spaces accessible to the public. ensure a more sustainable and efficient use of shared −− Ensure that recreational needs of young people are arrangements such as parking, playgrounds, changing met through the development of youth friendly Source: Open Space Strategy for County Kildare, 2011 rooms etc. and safe environments; Public swimming pools have been provided in Athy −− Maximise the range of recreational opportunities (ii) Allotments management, food production, recreation and health and Naas to service the south and mid county areas. It available for young people who are marginalised, disadvantaged or have a disability; An emerging new form of open space is the use benefits, biodiversity enhancement linkages and is envisaged that another pool would be developed in of land for allotments. Allotment gardens allow a economic benefits. North East Kildare. −− Promote relevant qualifications /standards in the number of people to cultivate their own vegetables provision of recreational activities; In developing green infrastructure, opportunities in individual plots/land parcels on lands owned by −− Develop a partnership approach in developing and should be taken to develop and enhance networks another private individual or body. These facilities can 14.11.5 Children’s Play Facilities funding recreational opportunities across statutory for cycling, walking and other non- motorised have a number of benefits including the promotion of community and voluntary sectors; and transport. Green infrastructure includes parks, open Children’s play is important to their development. It is healthy lifestyles, biodiversity and providing a cheaper spaces, playing fields, woodlands, allotments and through play that they learn to socialise and interact Improve information on recreational provision for local and sustainable source of food. There are 77 no. −− private gardens. with the world. In supporting play, residential areas, young people in Ireland, including evaluation and allotments at the Wonderful Barn in Leixlip. parks and open spaces should be available and be monitoring. (iv) Liffey Valley Park safe and enjoyable for children of different ages. The (iii) Green Infrastructure 14 As most of the River Liffey flows through County Council acknowledges the overarching role of the Green infrastructure refers to the network of linked Kildare, it has played a critical role in the social, economic National Play Policy Ready, Steady, Play, as published The Strategic Plan 2012-2016 for sports and high quality green spaces and other environmental and cultural life of the county and in particular the by the Department of Health and Children, 2004. The recreation for the county acknowledges the needs features within an urban setting. This strategically development of the towns and villages along its length. objectives of Ready, Steady, Play are: of young people. planned and delivered network should be designed In 2006 the strategy document Towards a Liffey Valley and managed as a multifunctional resource, capable −− To improve the quality and safety of playgrounds Park was published. It represents the first comprehensive of delivering a wide range of environmental and and play areas; strategy for that section of the river between quality of life benefits for local communities. This in Dublin and Celbridge in Co. Kildare. includes climate change adaptation, waste and water

332 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 333 14.12 POLICIES: Recreation CR 8 Explore the feasibility of developing the 14.12.3 Open Space and Amenity route of the Slí Mór and Slí Dála as long It is the policy of the Council to: distance walking routes in co-operation 14.12.1 Countryside Recreation with the Irish Sports Council, Fáilte Ireland OS 1 Implement the recommendations of the and other Local Authorities. Kildare Open Space Strategy 2012 and make It is the policy of the Council to: provision for a hierarchy of parks, open CR 9 Promote the expansion of cycle facilities spaces and outdoor recreation areas within CR 1 Support the diversification of the rural throughout the county and to liaise with towns and villages so that the population economy through the development of the Fáilte Ireland, the Sports Council, the National can participate in a wide range of active and recreational potential of the countryside in Transport Authority and other bodies in passive recreational pursuits within easy accordance with the National Countryside the development of cycling touring routes reach of their homes and places of work. Recreation Strategy. throughout the county and adjoining counties, in particular in areas of high CR 2 Support the development of woodland areas OS 2 Require the provision of good quality, well amenity. in conjunction with proposed development located and functional open space in new residential developments to cater for all age and on Council-owned lands. CR 10 Investigate the possibility of providing groups. appropriately designed quality signage CR 3 Develop and implement a County Walking for walking and cycling routes throughout Strategy, within the lifetime of the Plan, OS 3 Preserve, manage and maintain to a high the county. in consultation with statutory bodies and standard the existing public parks and open spaces in the county. landowners, and in accordance with the CR 11 Support and promote public access to recommendations of the County Kildare upland areas, rivers, lakes and other natural OS 4 Develop and improve physical linkages Walking Routes Project, 2005. This strategy amenities which do not endanger the 14.12.2 Public Rights of way and connections between the network of will seek to identify established walking conservation of such natural amenities. open spaces. routes in the county, evaluate these routes It is the policy of the Council to: and make recommendations for their CR 12 Facilitate the development of a walking OS 5 Retain, where appropriate, areas adjacent to RW 1 Preserve, protect, promote and improve, promotion. route between Ballymore Eustace, waterways as a linear park which may link for the common good, existing rights of Golden Falls, Poulaphouca, Russborough into the wider open space network. CR 4 Develop, in conjunction with the Irish and Barrettstown, in cooperation with way which contribute to general amenity, Sports Council and adjoining Local landowners and government agencies. particularly those which provide access to archaeological sites and National Authorities, long distance walking and 14.12.4 Recreation and Amenity cycling routes. CR 13 Encourage and support the development Monuments and amenities, including of water safety awareness initiatives in upland areas and water corridors, and to It is the policy of the Council to: CR 5 Investigate the possibility of developing association with Kildare Water Safety and create new ones or extend existing ones RA 1 Zone lands for sports and recreational long distance walking routes, within the related statutory bodies. where appropriate either by agreement amenities within Local Area Plans in lifetime of the Plan, along disused sections with landowners or through the use of CR 14 Seek to provide car parks for walkers at accordance with established local demands of railway lines (e.g. line) and canals compulsory powers, without adversely appropriate access points to amenities, and needs. in the county (Corbally Line, Blackwood affecting landscape conservation interests. where feasible, and subject to compliance Feeder, and Line). RA 2 Prohibit the development of areas zoned with the requirements arising from the RW 2 Seek to ensure that new development will open space/amenity or areas which have CR 6 Develop, in conjunction with local Habitats Directive. not have a negative impact on established been indicated in a previous planning communities, short walking routes, such walking routes/public rights of way, in CR 15 Ensure that any increase in visitor numbers application as being open space. as looped walks, heritage trails and Slí Na particular in areas of high amenity and is managed to avoid significant negative Sláinte routes. along the inland waterways of the county. RA 3 Avoid the loss of an existing amenity effects including loss of habitat and or recreational facility through any CR 7 Facilitate, where appropriate, the provision disturbance; and that projects are a suitable RW 3 Identify existing rights of way and walking development proposal, unless: of cycle-ways or walkways along the extent distance from the edge of sensitive habitats routes prior to any new planting, new of the canals and watercourses in the such as rivers and streams. infrastructural development and any new (i) The facility or amenity was county in co-operation with landowners, established as an interim use pending energy / telecommunications or golf course 14 , Government developments. the completion of an improved or Departments and other Local Authorities. satisfactory replacement facility. RW 4 Seek to improve the condition and or appearance of existing rights of way as (ii) The applicant can demonstrate that part of a proposed development where the there is an insufficient local demand applicant has confirmed the legal status of for the existing facility. existing rights of way. or

334 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 335 (iii) Satisfactory alternative provision can 14.12.5 Allotments GI 7 Minimise the environmental impact of 14.12.8 Children’s Play Areas be made by the applicant prior to the external lighting at sensitive locations It is the policy of the Council to: It is the policy of the Council to: commencement of development. within the Green Infrastructure network AL 1 Facilitate the development of allotments to achieve a sustainable balance between CP 1 Develop and implement a Play Policy RA 4 Require the provision of recreational of an appropriate scale and in accordance the recreational needs of an area, the safety for County Kildare which will set out a facilities concurrent with new residential with current guidelines, which meet the of walking and cycling routes and the strategy for the provision, resourcing and developments as deemed necessary by the following criteria: protection of light sensitive species such implementation of improved opportunities Council. Types of facilities to be provided as bats. for children to play. will be dependent upon factors such as the (i) The lands are situated within or size of a given development proposal and the immediately adjacent to the edge GI 8 Promote the planting of woodlands, availability of facilities (if any) in the area. of towns/villages or are easily forestry, community gardens, allotments CP 2 Provide play facilities adjacent to other accessible to the residents of a and parkland meadows within the county’s community and childcare facilities, in so RA 5 Seek improvement in the range, quality particular town or village; and open spaces and parks to promote the far as is possible, and to ensure their proper and capacity of sporting and recreational (ii) Adequate water supply and adequate development of multifunctional amenity management and maintenance. facilities through initiatives in partnership parking facilities can be provided. areas with enhanced biodiversity value. with community groups and sporting organisations, and to cater for all age-groups CP 3 Seek the provision and suitable and abilities. 14.12.6 Green Infrastructure management of children’s play areas in new 14.12.7 Liffey Valley Park housing developments and to implement It is the policy of the Council to: RA 6 Encourage the clustering of sport and It is the policy of the Council to: measures to find suitable sites for their community facilities and to encourage GI 1 Facilitate and promote the development of provision to serve existing residential areas. them to be multi-functional and not used green infrastructure which allows for the LV 1 Progress the implementation of the flagship exclusively by any one group. development of active and passive recreation projects identified in the report Towards a and the protection and enhancement of Liffey Valley Park Strategy. RA 7 Consider the future needs of sporting heritage and landscape features. LV 2 Pursue the creation of a Liffey Valley facilities i.e. capacity, access and community Regional Park together with and facilities, in the provision of new or in the GI 2 Make provision for habitat creation/ County Councils within expansion of existing sporting facilities. maintenance and facilitate biodiversity the lifetime of the Plan. by encouraging the development of linear RA 8 Promote town and village centre sites for parks, nature trails, wildlife corridors and sports and recreational facilities and to urban woodlands. facilitate out of town/village sites, where appropriate, (following a sequential test), GI 3 Provide a hierarchy of high quality in servicing large hinterland communities, and multi-functional public parks and where the site includes comprehensive open spaces. off road parking, conforms to all safety guidelines and is in accordance with GI 4 Support and facilitate the provision of a the proper planning and sustainable network of high quality, well located and development of the area. multifunctional public parks and open spaces throughout the county and to protect RA 9 Complete the swimming pool programme and enhance the environmental capacity and which will meet the needs of the whole ecological function of these spaces. county through the provision of a north Kildare swimming pool within the Leixlip GI 5 Connect parks and areas of open space Amenities Campus. with ecological and recreational corridors to aid the movement of biodiversity and RA 10 Seek to promote additional non-mainstream people and to strengthen the overall Green facilities for children and teenagers through Infrastructure network. the provision of suitable recreation and 14 amenity facilities in all major towns and GI 6 Enhance and diversify the outdoor villages. recreational potential of public open spaces and parks, subject to the protection of the RA 11 Commence the process of identifying the natural environment. location, procurement and development of three regional type parks, as outlined in the Council’s Kildare Open Space Strategy, 2011.

336 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 337 14.13 oBJECTIVES: Recreation and Amenity

It is an objective of the Council to:

RAO 1 Facilitate the provision of a variety of amenities within the county, including natural amenities, walking routes, cycling routes, and sports facilities.

RAO 2 Develop and implement a county walking strategy in consultation with statutory bodies and landowners and in accordance with the recommendations of the County Kildare Walking Routes Project, 2005.

RAO 3 Support the Sports and Recreation Strategic Plan 2012 – 2016 (or as it may be amended) RAO 11 Preserve the pedestrian link between the for the county, in co-operation with Kildare River Liffey and the Grand Canal at the Sports Partnership, during the lifetime of Aqueduct and to explore making this Plan the existing underpass fully accessible as RAO 4 Develop a Play Policy for County Kildare. recommended in the report Towards a Liffey Valley Park Strategy. RAO 5 Complete the arts and community facility audit for the county to inform future RAO 12 Seek to identify, list and map public rights requirements over the period of this Plan. of way in County Kildare that give access to seashore, mountain, lakeshore, riverbank RAO 6 Designate or zone, through the Local Area or other places of natural beauty or Plan process, suitable active and passive recreational utility over the lifetime of the open space in all settlements, commensurate plan and to provide for the preservation of with their existing and future needs. such public rights of way.

RAO 7 Require passive and active open space to be RAO 13 Develop long distance walking routes provided in tandem with new residential throughout the county including along: development. −− The Royal Canal RAO 8 Protect and develop substantial connected −− The Grand Canal networks of green spaces in urban −− The River Barrow areas and urban fringe areas adjacent to the countryside to serve the growing RAO 14 Identify the sites for three regional type communities in urban centres. parks in the Naas-Newbridge-Allenwood, Cellbridge-Maynooth-Leixlip and Athy RAO 9 Identify flagship projects for the River Liffey areas, and to commence the process of Valley from Celbridge to Ballymore Eustace delivery of same. as recommended in the report Towards a Liffey Valley Park Strategy.

RAO 10 Investigate the feasibility of creating a pedestrian link between the Liffey Valley, the Wicklow Mountains and the Wicklow 14 Way, in consultation with , as recommended in the report Towards a Liffey Valley Park Strategy.

338 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 Kildare County Development Plan 2017-2023 339