On Saturday March 11th, Metropolitan Mayor Councillor Jason Murphy officially opened the Jubilee Memorial Community Garden in Central Avenue, Lisduggan.
The concept for the community garden was spearheaded by Larchville Lisduggan Residents Association in a bid to develop a space in the heart of a thriving Waterford community that residents and visitors alike can enjoy.
Sarah Jane, Dawn, Kayden, Mia and Bella Halloran, Sharon and Georgia Marks and Reeva Reeva Rowe.
Jointly funded by Waterford City and County Council’s Environment Section and Waterford Area Partnership (WAP) Active Cities, the first phase of the project entailed the submission of landscape architectural drawings. Following a public consultation, the winning design was chosen. The landscaping project was tendered, overseen by the Open Spaces team in the Environment Department, with Fairybush Landscaping awarded the contract.
Phase two funding has been secured from Sláintecare to further enhance the overall design of the garden which is due to be completed by the summer.
At the launch Metropolitan Mayor, Cllr. Jason Murphy said, “I’m delighted to be here today to officially launch the Jubilee Memorial Community Garden, as I was born and bred quite literally a stone’s throw from here. This project is particularly close to my heart and what will make this phase of the project and any future phases a success is the buy-in from us, the community. This is your garden, this is your space. Please enjoy it and take ownership of it and as a community come together to develop it how you wish, bursting with wildflowers, pollinators, colour, and scent.”
“The time is now for the community to link in with the Residents Association to form a working group to oversee the development and maintenance of the space going forward.”
Jessie, Kathleen and Layla Grace Collins, Calvin and Imelda O'Callaghan, Ann Kelly and Kayden Regan.
Bulbs were planted by those from the area in memory of lost loved ones and a remembrance tree was blessed by Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan Diocese of Waterford and Lismore, as part of the 50th Jubilee of St. Paul’s Parish. Nuala Colfer from Central Avenue donated two tress to the Memorial Garden in memory of Joe and Kevin Colfer.
With refreshments provided by residents, and music by David Flynn, despite the inclement weather the occasion was enjoyed by all in attendance.
Michael Murphy of Waterford City and County Council’s Estate Management Team was delighted to co-ordinate the project with all the stakeholders.
“The idea of creating a community garden in an unused large open space is as inspired as it is pragmatic. This community garden is placed in the heart of Lisduggan, and it is sustainable, good for the environment, has health and well-being benefits and it strengthens community ties. I look forward to seeing what the local community do in the months and years ahead to solidify and develop this space as a place to be proud of.”
Maura Cheasty and Betty Sinnott, lifelong residents of Lisduggan who attended the opening.
John Burns, Chair of Lachville Lisduggan Residents Association added that the community was looking forward to the next phase of the community garden. “We’re delighted with how much progress has been made so far. Already the difference is apparent, and the community has really embraced the idea of having a communal garden that everyone can benefit from. There has been a great level of commitment and dedication from the residents and the Council in bringing the garden to fruition and we’re looking forward to seeing phase two rolled out.”
If members of the public would like to donate trees in memory of loved ones to the Jubilee Memorial Garden, they can do so by contacting Larchville Lisduggan Residents Association or members of the Jubilee Memorial Garden Committee.
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