Great Turnout For Final Consultation For the Public Lands Surrounding Black Castle
Wicklow County Council and the Wicklow Town Team, in collaboration with the appointed consultants, Studio Idir, were delighted with the turnout at the third and final Black Castle Public Consultation held recently on Thursday, 9th October 9th, at Wicklow Library.
This event followed a day of community engagement held in August and a public consultation that took place in September.
Local residents, groups and community representatives were invited to share their ideas and suggestions on how to enhance the public lands surrounding the Black Castle.
Having reviewed and analysed all the feedback collected, Studio Idir presented draft design proposals to attendees at the recent consultation. These draft proposals focused on key themes that emerged during previous public consultations, such as improving accessibility, preserving heritage, supporting biodiversity, expanding recreational opportunities and creating sustainable visitor facilities.
This initiative is funded by the Town and Village Renewal Scheme through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. It is part of a larger project aimed at developing a comprehensive design plan to enhance the public landscape surrounding Black Castle. The project also includes an assessment of the condition and structure of the Black Castle ruins as part of the overall site strategy.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District, Cllr Graham Richmond, remarked, "I am pleased to see such strong public engagement at all three public consultations. It is encouraging that the community's voice is shaping the future of the Black Castle site."
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O'Gorman, commented, "This collaboration between the elected members, the Town Team, the Town Regeneration Office and local residents allows us to explore new opportunities to protect and enhance this landmark. It also demonstrates how national initiatives, such as the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and Town Centre First, can be effectively implemented at the local level with strong community input."
The public can continue to provide feedback on the proposals by clicking the link here: Stage 3 Consultation Feedback - Black Castle Public Realm Enhancement Project - Studio Idir
The presentation shared at the recent public consultation can be viewed, and an interactive feedback form can be downloaded. Once completed, this document can be emailed to katie@studioidir.com until Thursday,16th October.
This is your chance to help shape the future of one of Wicklow's most historic landmarks.