News

A new 8.1-hectare linear park has officially opened to the public at Altidore Gardens in Newtownmountkennedy, providing a major boost to local biodiversity and outdoor recreation in the area. Nestled in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, this beautifully designed park is the centrepiece of Altidore Gardens, the thoughtfully planned community of 5 unique residential estates by D/RES.

Designed as a vibrant green space for residents and wildlife alike, the park features a 1.5km loop that winds through wildflower meadows, newly planted woodland, natural habitats, and the estates of Oakmount, Alderwood, Merepark, Glendarragh and Rosebay through a network of walking, running and cycling routes, and finally leads to the village of Newtownmountkennedy for the wider community’s enjoyment.

The landscape has been carefully cultivated to promote ecological diversity, with 350 mature trees and 14,900 whips (young tree seedlings) planted throughout. An additional 8,500m² of wildflower meadows planted by D/RES provide year-round colour, encourage birdsong and attract pollinators, supported by six dedicated bee and insect hotels.

Already, the park is a peaceful haven for local wildlife including Sika deer, foxes, badgers, rabbits, and hedgehogs, offering both Altidore Gardens residents and the wider Newtownmountkennedy community a chance to engage with nature just minutes from their homes. Educational ecology boards are dotted around various points of the park outlining the native mammals, trees and birds identified in the area. In order to preserve the natural watercourse of the Altidore River, an engineered attenuation dam that filters and manages stormwater and returns it cleanly to the river has been incorporated by D/RES at the western edge of the park.

Among D/RES initiatives to enhance the public wellbeing is the construction of pedestrian bridges, footpaths and cycle paths, the installation of outdoor playground equipment and of contemporary Corten and timber benches throughout.

The opening of the linear park marks a significant investment in green infrastructure and community well-being, creating a tranquil environment for walking, relaxing, and observing local wildlife. As Altidore Gardens continues to grow, the park will serve as a natural heart of the development – enhancing quality of life and preserving the area’s rich biodiversity for generations to come.

To learn more about the linear park at the heart of Altidore Gardens, visit altidoregardens.ie.