Navan Park work hits delay snags

A significant archaeological site, invasive plants and drainage problems have led to delays in the completion of Navan's new Town Park on the Rathaldron Road. The first phase of the 66-acre park was due to open this summer, but it is now expected it will be delayed until October. An archeological site described as "significant" has been unearthed and will have to be subjected to laboratory examination and testing. According to Cllr Joe Reilly, a number of plants have also been identified. "The Japanese Knotweed has been identified and legally must be eliminated from the site. Another type of flora, Mares Tail, has also been discovered and has to be removed from the park grounds as well," he said. "Of some concern is the difficulties experienced by the park developer in draining the site as they have encountered 'moving sand,' a mixture of sand and underground water which is problematic in putting the drainage pipes in place. "Most worrying is the time delay and the further cost incurred because of these difficulties on an extremely tight budget. "I understand that there could be a minimum delay of three months due to the issues encountered by the developer," said Cllr Reilly. He said the development of the park was a primary objective for Navan Town Council. "When opened, it will further enhance the social infrastructure and amenities of the town for the people of Navan and Meath. I will be seeking a meeting with town council management to discuss the unforeseen difficulties and the financial implications of those difficulties," he said. A spokesperson for Meath County Council said construction works are progressing in respect of phase one of the Navan Town Park Scheme. "As with all schemes of this nature, it is likely that issues may arise from time to time. Given the site's close proximity to a Special Area of Conservation, and in accordance with the approved EIS for this scheme, an archaeologist and ecologist are on-site. "Despite challenging ground conditions and the issue of archaeological and various flora and fauna finds, it is still expected that phase one of the scheme will be completed by October," she said. She added that once completed, the works will improve the quality of life and living environment of all the citizens of Navan and beyond. The first phase of the park will icnlude a number of playing fields and walkways as well as a children's play area. Further phases of the park to be developed in the coming years will include a pedestrian bridge across the Blackwater to link the park to the town centre, an environmental education area, a performance area, a skateboard park and lawn bowling facilities.