Over €32k boost for community project in Marine View

Photo: A view of the overgrown public corner garden in Marine View.

A grant of over €32,000 has been welcomed by a local councillor for a community environmental project in Marine View, Athlone.

Fianna Fáil's Frankie Keena has welcomed the approval of €32,325 from the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment towards the enhancement of a garden in the Marine View estate on Abbey Road in the town.

“The area in question is a public corner garden in Marine View that has become overgrown and fallen into disrepair over the years. The enhancement of this garden has been on my agenda for quite a while and now I am absolutely delighted that funding has been granted for the work.

“The feedback that I am getting so far from the residents in Marine View is very positive and they are looking forward to engaging with the district on the type of works to be carried out.

“In general terms the draft proposed works will include the complete clearance of all overgrown scrub and litter, installation of raised flower beds and paths and the provision of an attractive mural on the walls. It is so important that the views of the residents are also incorporated into this final plan,” Cllr Keena said.

Community engagement and involvement during the implementation stage of the project is also necessary, the former Mayor stressed, saying any residents that he has engaged with so far are eager to get involved and help out.

“There will also be an opportunity for local children in the estate to assist the artist paint the mural on the wall. It is all about giving residents ownership over the project and I thank them for their offer to help,” Cllr Keena added.

He thanked Athlone Municipal District and the environmental section of Westmeath County Council for all their work and assistance in submitting this application to the department, and looks forward to assisting the residents with this project, he concluded.