Cathaoirleach Cllr Nick Killian pictured with Mayor of Navan Cllr Eddie Fennessy and Meath County Council Chief Executive Jackie Maguire at the official opening of the new facilities at Blackwater Park, Navan.

Opening of Blackwater Park toilets, changing facilities

The new toilet and changing facilities at Navan's Blackwater Park were officially opened by the Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Nick Killian, Mayor of Navan, Eddie Fennessy and Meath County Council Chief Executive, Jackie Maguire.

The new building provides changing rooms with shower facilities and public toilets that cater for all abilities.

Meath County Council has completed various projects over recent years to reflect the increased usage of the park, these include the development of the playground, the installation of lighting along the 1.4km looped walkway to allow longer hours of usage during the autumn and winter months and the launch of Sceal Trail, a fun and educational activity that can be enjoyed by all the family.

Speaking at the event Cllr Killian said, “By providing toilet and changing facilities the park can now facilitate increased sports participation through local schools and sporting organisations. Having adequate changing facilities will enhance the user experience and attract new users to the park, and in return will result in increasing interest and participation numbers”.

Mayor of Navan Cllr Eddie Fennessy added: “The opening of the toilets and changing rooms is welcome news for all those people who have been using the park and especially good news for sports groups and individuals involved in activities here. I want to thank Meath County Council and all involved for bringing this project to fruition”.

Meanwhile, Work is progressing on finalising a preferred option for the Boyne Greenway and Navigation scheme Cllr Eddie Fennessy had asked for an update on the delivery of the project.

Officials said announcement of a preferred option had been delayed and further work and consultations with stakeholders were being undertaken to inform the decision-making process. The further work was principally concerned with more accurately defining the significance of flooding risk.

The preliminary design and environmental reports and studies for the preferred option will be developed with a view to bringing forward an application for statutory planning approval in 2024.