The outstanding areas of native, natural short meadow along the north & east side of the GAA pitch are among the best the judges have seen & they gave high praise to those maintaining the excellent surfaces on the grass pitches without chemicals or peat.

The report also shared a number of recommendations to enhance the Park visually & environmentally. These suggestions included improved signage & improved online presence along with extended areas of biodiversity & native planting and water conservation. Sustainability, accessibility & carbon footprint reduction are all considerations in any future developments in the Park, according the report.

Managing all the areas in the Park without pesticides & maintaining a welcoming space for all to enjoy was highly commended.

The Committee are very grateful to all the Clubs, Groups & all users of the Park whose care & respect for the Park has ensured that this application was successful. The Community are indebted to those who maintain the Park on a daily and weekly basis particularly the Park Ranger & the Local Community Employment Scheme CES along with Mick. It was evident to the judges that Fr Breen Park is a valued & integral part of the Community.

Throughout the year the Park has hosted a great number of pollinators on the colourful, short wildflower meadow, along the walkways & in the various other green areas. Managing the wildflowers & allowing them to grow & reseed has greatly enhanced the biodiversity on this site. 

The recently completed Climate Action initiatives funded by Laois County Council which include solar panels, retrofit of the two indoor rooms, bicycle stands & smart controls are part of Fr. Breen Park Committee’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the facilities in a more climate friendly & sustainable way.

The respect given by those visiting the Park to the “Leave no Trace” & “Dog Fouling” policies greatly enhances the community’s enjoyment of the Park.