An application to the High Court to launch Judicial Review proceedings against Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council was made in July this year, challenging both the process which the Council Executive followed in the lead-up to a vote by DLRCOCO Councillors on Monday 9 May and the subsequent vote itself to approve the removal and redevelopment of the large meadow at the heart of Shanganagh Park and to replace it with a “high intensity active recreation zone”.

This process and vote happened despite significant flaws in the procedures followed, the public consultation process and overwhelming community opposition to the plans as presented - from individuals, residents groups, sports clubs and their own members, local businesses and many more from within and beyond Shankill - when more sustainable solutions sympathetic to the park and sporting needs were available i.e. using and upgrading existing facilities within and nearby the park itself which offered a viable alternative, supported by a majority, and which made sound economic, social and environmental sense.

The High Court hearing took place on Monday 3 October and the judge was informed at the start of the hearing that DLRCOCO had conceded the case brought against it, thereby accepting an order to quash the Part 8 redevelopment.

As a result, this redevelopment is no longer permitted and the much-loved meadow remains safe for all to enjoy. DLRCOCO may in time look to start another process from scratch and if they do, we’ll be ready as we were before to contribute to a collaborative, authentic and meaningful whole of community consultation that safeguards our fantastic park for ALL users, be they feathered or furry, fitness seekers or fans.

This outcome would not have been possible without the backing of 2,000+ supporters whose legitimate views the Council regrettably failed to genuinely consider for reasons best known to themselves (as evidenced in the DLRCOCO Chief Executive's Report, incredibly supported by all but two Councillors (click here to see the report). We sincerely hope all Councillors take note of the decision and actually come and visit the park to see exactly what was at risk.

The variety of support offered by so many has been very much appreciated by the #SaveShanganaghPark team so this is a win for all who cared enough to challenge the Council and add their voice to the campaign to #SaveShanganaghPark.

So go and enjoy the park - it is a beautiful, highly-treasured amenity by young and old from all walks of life. It is an important site for local sport, active and passive recreation, and the envy of many visiting clubs. But crucially, it is a safe haven for the rich yet increasingly under-threat biodiversity of Shankill and the surrounding communities.

As more and more unspoilt green spaces around us get swallowed-up every day, only by working together can we balance a community's wants with nature's needs to best preserve the Park for current and future generations to come.

Thank you.

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