Environment
Limerick City’s People’s Park designated a “Quiet Area” following EPA consultation
Limerick City’s People’s Park designated a “Quiet Area” following EPA consultation
People’s Park in Limerick City has been designated a Quiet Area following EPA consultation and approval by Minister Darragh O’Brien TD
Limerick City’s People’s Park has successfully secured designation as a Quiet Area, following consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and approval by the Minister for the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien TD.
The designation, under the Environmental Noise Regulations 2018, formally recognises the park’s tranquil sound environment but does not impose noise limits or restrict activities. The designation acknowledges that the quality of sound within the People’s Park is significantly more pleasant than in the surrounding busier urban areas. The park’s soundscape is largely characterised by natural sounds, contributing to its peaceful and restorative atmosphere.
This achievement marks a significant milestone, as it is the first designation in Ireland to be based on an innovative soundscape approach, combining objective sound measurements with an assessment of people’s emotional responses to the acoustic environment. The People’s Park is also the first designation outside of Dublin, where eight Quiet Areas were approved in 2013.
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The designation forms part of a broader programme of actions under the Agglomeration of Limerick Noise Action Plan 2023 – 2028, which aim to enhance environmental quality and improve the well-being of residents across the city.
Simon Jennings, Executive Scientist, Environment and Climate Action at LCCC, said the designation is acknowledgment for the need of making tranquil spaces for the people of Limerick. He said, ” The long-term effects of noise pollution on health and well-being are well documented. Designating the People’s Park a quiet area draws attention to the need to acknowledge and appreciate those qualities that make the park a tranquil space for all citizens of Limerick.”
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, welcomed the designation as a “meaningful recognition of one of Limerick’s most cherished public spaces”.
He added, “This designation highlights the importance of protecting and enhancing the quality of our public realm as we continue to shape a more liveable, attractive and people-focused Limerick.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery added, “This is a very positive recognition of the special role that the People’s Park plays in the life of our city. Acknowledging the park as a Quiet Area reinforces the importance of protecting these spaces, not just for recreation, but for wellbeing and quality of life in an increasingly busy urban environment.”
Director General, Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly said Limerick City and County Council has a “commitment to protecting and promoting high-quality urban environments”, saying they aim to ensure “that valued public spaces like the People’s Park continue to offer a vital refuge from the pressures of city life”.
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