Shanganagh

Shanganagh Regional Park (36 hectares/89acres) has been open to the public since the 1980's. In recent years the Council has initiated a series of substantial improvements to the park's infrastructure by implementing a Landscape Masterplan. Located between the Dublin Road, on its western boundary, and the coastline to the east, the Park is bound by residential estates to the north and west and is within easy walking distance of Shankill village.

The Park is a significant part of the green belt between Shankill and Bray. It also forms a vital link between the County's coastline amenities at Killiney Bay and the upland forests at Ballycorus and Carrickgollogan. This link, both physical and visual, is being used in the Dublin Mountains Strategy - by providing new walking trails - and in the Park itself by developing the proposed 'Corkscrew Hill'.

The masterplan sets out preliminary design and key elements for future phases of park development. It addresses the needs of existing and potential users, particular those who will live in the planned settlements at the nearby Woodbrook/Shanganagh and Old Conna areas. The masterplan balances different types of leisure pursuits within the park in a sustainable manner, whilst conserving and enhancing its semi-natural character.

Significant progress has been made in implementing the plan. The Council plans to construct the remaining sports and recreational elements - such as Corkscrew Hill - over the next few years. The Corkscrew Hill will provide elevated views of the local landscapes. It will be located in the centre of the park's 'Big Field', next to the woodlands. The summit of the Spiral will include a viewing platform with seating facilities. As visitors ascend by either of two paths, they enjoy a panorama view.

The park has a comprehensive network of pedestrian and cycle paths in place and a large children's play area which is immensely popular. The park also includes wildflower meadows and native woodlands and has bee planted with over 160,000 naturalised bulbs.