Fr. Ferris Community Park was officially opened on October 3rd 2010, the culmination of 10 years of fundraising, planning and development. The field, comprising of over 4 acres, was purchased in 2000 out of a need for public recreational facilities and an urgent solution to car parking congestion at the local national school.
Previously the field had been in agricultural use and a haybarn and some stone outbuildings were located where the present lime kiln area is situated. The lime kiln would probably have been used as far back as the Barrymore Castle era for the castle itself along with the high stone walls which are a common feature throughout the village. Cattle were out-wintered in the field up until the late 90’s and in the year 2000 the Kent family of Castleview very generously offered the field to the local Community Council for a nominal sum.
At the time, acquiring a site like this in the middle of the village adjacent to the school was almost impossible as land values had increased exhorbitantly. Similar land banks in other villages had been used up for housing to the detriment of having amenities for the local community. Furthermore, this area was zoned for industrial use (adjoining Castlelyons Co-op and in a very central location), so the opportunity to purchase the field was all the more remarkable. A stipulation of the purchase was that it be made available to all the community and that no housing would be allowed on it. The legacy of this gesture by the Kent family will be seen for many generations to come and for that we are all grateful.
Its true value can be seen today as it now boasts :
•50 space car park,
•beautiful childrens playground,
•picnic tables and seats,
•lime kiln restoration,
•wild flower garden,
•communal pitch
•public walkway with lighting
 Acknowledgment Plaque |
 Fr Ferris Community Park Plaque |
 Childrens Playground |
 Toddler Area |
 Swings & Spring Ride |
 Tyre Swing |
 Super Slide |
 Spinner |
 Trampoline |
 Zip-Wire |