Galway City Council has announced the immediate closure of the main footpaths through Merlin Park following ongoing incidents of criminal damage at the site.
The closure had originally been scheduled to take effect next week as part of ongoing works in the park. However, damage to the perimeter fencing and ecological protection measures has necessitated the immediate closure of the primary pedestrian routes.
The decision has been taken to protect public safety, secure the construction site and safeguard ecological measures currently in place.
A number of routes will remain open to maintain access for local residents, including the school route. A map issued by Galway City Council shows the closed paths in red and the routes that remain open in yellow.
The Council has advised that continued damage to site fencing and security measures could result in further restrictions, such as closing the park in its entirety, including access along the school route.
To strengthen site security, 24-hour security patrols will be introduced, and additional measures will be implemented to fully secure the construction area.
Members of the public are reminded that unauthorised entry to a construction site is illegal and presents significant health and safety risks. Any breaches of site security or incidents of unauthorised access will be referred to the appropriate authorities.
Residents are asked to respect all closures and signage in place and to use only those routes that remain open while works continue.
