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The site
of Loughnaneane Park is a fascinating confluence of geographical
and historical features which embody the physical, natural
and cultural history of Roscommon. The town park designed
by Murray & Associates incorporates this rich heritage
with sculptural forms to create a modern facility for the
people of Roscommon.
The structure of the park is based on a main avenue which
is intersected by an elliptical lake. The avenue is orientated
to visually connect Roscommon Castle and Roscommon Church,
two of the most significant architectural features of Roscommon
town. The avenue is flanked with Lime trees and meets a
viewing deck on the edge of an elliptical lake. The lake
serves to enhance the view of the castle. Arcs from the
lake are extrapolated to create the secondary structure
of the park. These arcs form a dynamic pattern which provides
the layout for paths, mounding and planting. The layout
is strongly geometric and features are fitted within the
overall structure. The paths link the park spaces and features
and create walking routes within the park. Seating is provided
at key junctions and at regular intervals throughout the
park.
The main avenue of the park focuses visually on Roscommon
Castle, one of the most magnificent ruins in Ireland. The
path swerves in a wide arc from the viewing deck around
the lake edge to bring the visitor to the castle. The approach
to the castle is marked with a wide, curving timber surface.
A raised terrace, paved with golden gravel and grass, defines
the interface of the castle with the park.
Another archaeological feature of the site is the ‘Hill
of Bones’. The history of this part of the site is
not known but there are numerous local tales regarding its
mysterious past... This has been enclosed as a meditative
grove of birch trees and fern within the park.
The natural features of the park are also highlighted. A
turlough occupies the western part of the site and is managed
as a wildlife conservation area which is a habitat of unique
flora and fauna. A deck is provided for visitors to view
the wildlife and views beyond. There is also a swallow-hole
on the site, a remarkable feature of limestone areas which
is enhanced by placing limestone boulders in an elliptical
form.
The landscape design utilises sculptural forms and careful
selection of tree and plant species to evoke images of the
landscapes of the past. Large mounds are aesthetically reminiscent
of Neolithic earthworks whilst providing an interesting
change in level in a flat site and helping to define the
central area of the park.
The planting scheme is designed to complement the overall
layout. Boundary woodland planting defines the northern,
western and southern boundaries. Within the park, groups
of native and naturalised trees are arranged in grid patterns
flanking the pathways. These create strong spaces within
the park and provide visual interest.
The park also features a children’s play area, car
park and entrance areas. Murray & Associates also designed
the steel entrance gate details.
The development of Loughnaneane Park is first and foremost
a public amenity for the people of Roscommon to enjoy. It
accommodates walkers, nature enthusiasts, families and tourists.
It also has an educational role in relation to archaeological
features, native flora and fauna and the natural processes
and features of the area. The park will also protect the
existing environment and wildlife of the area.
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