DLRCOCO have cancelled a public meeting hosted by the South Shankill Residents Association scheduled for this Thursday, 25 Aug at 7.30pm in Shankill Tennis Club.

Council staff have been advised not to present given a legal action involving the Council concerning the proposed redevelopment of the park.

Notwithstanding the late notice given stakeholders had already been informed of the meeting taking place, this is a very disappointing development given DLRCOCO confirmed their attendance at this public meeting which was specifically organised and designed for DLRCOCO Parks team to update and hear from the impacted community on the Council's widely opposed plans.

In order to support and preserve the important biodiversity, character and heart of the park for all, scaling back plans to instead upgrade existing facilities is a far better financial, social and environmental solution that balances the needs of ALL users and not just the vested interests of some.

Action:

1. Share the petition at www.change.org/SaveShanganaghPark and let your local representatives and sports clubs know that you do not support the plans as approved by the Council on 9 May 2022 but instead demand a more sustainable alternative to preserve the wonderful amenity for ALL to enjoy irrespective of age and activity.

2. Follow www.facebook.com/SaveShanganaghPark for information and updates.

3. Share your pictures and videos of the park on social media with the tag #SaveShanganaghPark - see the pic above of birds feeding above the meadow the Council want to replace with pitches, 9x 25m tall floodlights and high netting. Remove the meadow and you remove another crucial open space for all to enjoy that plays a critical role in supporting Shankill's rich but under-threat biodiversity.