Plans to enhance Borris’ park

A very well-attended Annual General Meeting of Borrisokane Town Park took place in Fuman Garden Chinese Restaurant in Borrisokane on March 10.

The chairperson, Joe Murphy, welcomed all who were in attendance and reviewed the business of the Town Park Committee over the past 12 months. He noted how the past year had seen substantial improvements made to the park including resurfacing of footpaths and a complete renovation of the carpark and the main entrance to the carpark. The chairperson thanked Tipperary County Council for its grant support for this work and all who have volunteered to help in the Town Park over the past year.

The meeting also expressed satisfaction with additional recent improvements to the Town Park, especially along the riverside area. A new sub-committee was formed to develop a plan for the tasteful incorporation of this area into the park and with a view to improving the recreational amenities in the park.

The meeting also heard a presentation by Edel Leahy of the Silver Arch Family Support organisation. Silver Arch is requesting permission from Borrisokane Town Park to create a mural in the park and also an extended flower and shrub area beside the carpark which will involve the voluntary assistance of many of Borrisokane’s new residents. The meeting welcomed this proposal and gave the go-ahead for same. This is consistent with the inclusive approach of Borrisokane Town Park Committee over the past 19 years and is also reflective of how Borrisokane Town Park welcomes people from all backgrounds on a daily basis all year round.

A presentation was also given to the meeting by Gerry Duggan on behalf of Borrisokane Men’s Shed. The Men’s Shed are proposing to erect a 10x7m poly-dome for vegetable growing in Borrisokane Town Park. This work is to be part funded by Tipperary Leader and the meeting agreed to support this useful initiative.

Provision of toilets in Borrisokane Town Park was also considered. Two problems were identified being firstly the financial cost of providing toilets and secondly, the necessity for daily cleaning and regular maintenance. As the park is an entirely voluntary run project, the provision of toilets would represent a considerable strain on the committee’s resources. It was noted that a type of eco-toilet has been provided in Portumna Forest Park and it was agreed that a sub-committee would look into the provision of similar units in Borrisokane Town Park.

Complaints were also heard at the meeting as to the behaviour of people walking dogs in the park. The meeting heard how some people still choose to bring dogs into the park without dog leads while others are careless as to the mess created by dogs. It was agreed that more signage needs to be erected in the park to remind dog owners of their obligations.

The election of officers saw the return of Joe Murphy as chairperson, John Hartnett as vice-chairperson, Enda Heenan and Robert Armitage as joint-treasurers and Michael Collins as secretary.

The meeting then adjourned for a feast of beautiful Chinese food prepared by the management and staff for everyone in attendance.