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.
