Morrissey Park plan to go for approval

Planning permission will be sought in 2025 for a major revamp to Morrissey Park, with exciting plans to develop a 3-on-3 basketball court, a skate park, lighting, outdoor benches, an outdoor soccer table and matting for a dedicated exercise space.

The approval will be sought directly from the elected members of Cavan-Belturbet Municipal District in January 2025 under Part VIII of the Planning & Development Act.

Along with Con Smith Park in Cavan Town, funding totalling €82,500 was awarded to the Cavan Local Sports Partnership under the new Participation Nation Outdoor Fund back in October to progress the Belturbet ambition, part of a wider master plan that includes additional parking, and a viewing space overlooking the nearby river Erne.

A concept design was drawn up by Cavan-based Brackley Landscaping.

Dedicated in honour of the late Sergeant Patrick Morrissey, the current park already has a playground for young children, which recently received a €155,000 renovation, as well as outdoor gym equipment spread throughout.

However, it is widely acknowledged that access and movement around the park is limited, with very little hard surfacing suitable for young families or disabled visitors.

The new design aims to create a functional and accessible park for the future, capable of being used and utilised by all members of the community.

The proposals dove-tail neatly with additional plans to redevelop what is known as the 'The Ducking Stool' site by the old marina.

Recently €50,000 was secured under the Town Centre First initiative, with the aim of maximising the area as a recreational amenity.

The funding was assigned as part of a larger €2.6m national allocation across Cavan and Monaghan, with other local towns to benefit including Bailieborough and Ballyjamesduff.

“Project elements include the design, planning and assessments necessary to create a final design,” said a council spokesperson.