Performance space included in Porchfields upgrade works
The restoration of the old 'horse bridge' and the development of an outdoor performance space will be included in work at the Porchfields in Trim, which will begin shortly.
The contract for the work, which also includes upgrading and improving the paths, was signed recently.
The Porchfields, which has always been a popular spot for walkers, saw a huge increase in activity since the start of the pandemic.
The field has a number of footpaths and is used for agricultural purposes with the lands currently being grazed by sheep.
The €646,825 project will consist of upgrading and improving sections the existing footpath, signage and information panels, provision of picnic areas, creating a performance area and improving the biodiversity of the site by developing wild flower planting areas.
Cllr Noel French said he was delighted the old horse bridge will be restored.
"This is something I have campaigned for, for a long time.
"It was built as a bridge over the canal that never came. It is currently fenced off because it is dangerous, but it will be restored."
Cllr French said that the outdoor performance space would be close to the bridge with Trim Castle as a backdrop.
He explained that the proposed works will be taking place on the facility on the Newtown side of the inner relief road.
"Work was carried out on the paths on the town side of the road last year," he pointed out.
Cllr French said that he been cautious about the proposed work as he would like to see as much as possible of the natural area preserved.
"I expressed my concern but I am happy with the current plan. I would be reluctant to see too much development ruin the Porchfields.
"It is a fantastic facility for Trim and we are so lucky to have it."
Cllr Aisling Dempsey said she was delighted to see the project progress, as it has been in the pipeline since she was elected in 2019.
"I was successful in my first motion at our Trim Municipal District meeting in getting an agreement to install age friendly gym equipment in an outdoor location in the Trim area. I am thrilled it will be included as part of this project.
"The Porchfields have always been one of our most treasured locations in town, there are few towns which could rival such a natural beauty right in its centre.
“I have always understood and indeed shared people's reservations in doing anything construction wise to damage such an amenity.
“But I believe we are enhancing it with wonderful additions such as a picnic and performance area which will have an informal grassed seating area, with the castle as an amazing backdrop for our local performers to showcase their talents.
"We will be improving our pathways for walkers, runners and the disabled, making this amenity even more inclusive and accessible to the townspeople and tourists alike.
"Our lives have shifted outdoors, I don't believe that is temporary, and this is another example of how we are improving Trim's offerings."
She said the much loved horse bridge will also be restored and an audio and visual guide to the Porchfields will be available in the future.
"As a local person, councillor and Chairperson of Boyne Valley Tourism Committee, I am proud to welcome the commencement of this project," she said.