Limerick parish residents react to ‘Trump’s wall’
RESIDENTS in a Limerick parish have raised concerns over a new ball wall erected in a local GAA field that is blocking their ‘fabulous view’ of a historic hill.
While “much-needed” renovations have been applauded by many in the community, the installation of a five-meter (16.5 ft) ball wall in close proximity to a number of dwellings near Knockainey GAA Club has raised concerns among residents including Marie Enright who has been a resident in Knockainey all her life.
“If you look out from my sitting room, all you can see now is a big stone wall. The view of the hill is gone now. It’s an absolute disgrace,” Ms Enright said.
According to Ms Enright, objections were made to Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) but they “got nowhere”.
“Don’t get me wrong, it’s great to see them doing something with the club, it’s great to see things happening but this is not right.
“I rang the council after seeing the wall and I told them to come over and see it, to come to my house and see what they’re after doing.
“My neighbour's house is worse than mine, you can’t see anything at all from his house,” she added.
A planning application for the ball wall was initially submitted in 2021. Current plans for redevelopment at Knockainey GAA Club include the creation of a sand-based pitch and an astroturf pitch with new perimeter enclosure fencing to the training area and the erection of additional flood lighting.
Two objections were made regarding the construction of the ball wall. Both objections were made in March 2021.
“I am in favour of [Knockainey GAA’s] plans to upgrade their training area to improve facilities for players but I have to object to the construction of a ball wall which will be straight across from my house which will seriously affect my view and light…” the objection read.
Another local has claimed that the ball wall is like “Trump's wall has been erected in Knockainey” as the grey wall stands five meters high.
“It looks so alien standing in the middle of the GAA club,” they said.
Following a site visit in March 2021, a planner's report was submitted to LCCC.
It was noted that the location of the ball wall was chosen between an existing training area, where it serves a particular purpose.
“The applicant notes that the distance to dwellings was considered in the design and layout. Acceptable at this location as to move location would require moving the existing training pitches,” the report read.
It was also noted on the planning report that the ball wall shall not be used during the hours of 9pm at night and 9am the following morning.
The use of new floodlights is also to cease at 9pm.