Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 603: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to develop a national park along the River Liffey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25118/07]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Office of Public Works, in association with Dublin City Council and Fingal, Kildare and South Dublin County Councils, commissioned ERM Consultants to draw up a strategy for the Liffey Valley. The report, Towards a Liffey Valley Park, was published in November 2006.

The report does not recommend the designation of the Liffey Valley as a National Park nor would this be possible at present given that only State lands are comprised in Irish National Parks. However, the Department is keeping the proposal for the creation of a National Park under review.

The Development Plans of the relevant local authorities provide the primary land use protection for the Liffey Valley. In addition, parts of the Valley are covered by special designations. The area between Chapelizod and Lucan is protected by a Special Area Amenity Order and part of the Valley is designated as a Natural Heritage Area (site code 128).