This project involved Phase 2 of the development of Fernhill House and Gardens into a Regional Public Park on behalf of Dún-Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC). The estate dates back to 1823 and comprises a unique collection of heritage and listed buildings in addition to mature woodlands. As such, particular attention was required to ensure the protection of the existing structures and trees during the planning of the project.
The design was shaped by the aims and objectives established in the park masterplan and guided by the principles of the Fernhill Park & Gardens Sustainable Development Strategy. This meant working with the natural topography of the site; protecting and enhancing the existing site features; minimising impermeable surfaces; maximising the opportunities for planting; prioritising sustainable travel (particularly walking and cycling); and the use of soft engineering solutions.
As the works were being carried out in and around built heritage as well as protected forested areas, a lot of focus was put into ensuring the construction methodologies were sympathetic. A full arborist report was prepared prior to works commencing, as well as a review of the requirements of non-vibrating work zones in relation to works in close proximity to any buildings. Noise, vibration and dust monitoring were coordinated with adjoining property and business owners, including Rosemont School.
Situated on the busy Enniskerry Road, a detailed temporary traffic management (TM) plan was designed in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. A liaison officer was appointed to maintain communication with relevant parties and provide regular updates. TM measures included operation of site access, plant crossings and temporary diversions for traffic. At Enniskerry Road, works were carried out between 10am and 4pm to avoid disruption to local communities.
The project involved construction of a new shared surface avenue, footpaths, running track, new entrance ways, drainage, attenuation and services upgrades. Bulk earthworks were required for the new grass playing pitch with a 400m running path around the perimeter. A 49m retaining wall was constructed, including step locations. The wall was poured in five sections and a 150mm perforated pipe placed along its length (covered in 150mm pea gravel) to discharge to the outfall.
New entrances were constructed to Fernhill and Rosemont School which involved upgrade of the existing Rosemont junction to a signal-controlled junction. The existing boundary wall at the Enniskerry Road was partially demolished and the material reused in construction of the new wall and gate piers. The reconstructed wall was 1.2m random rubble stonework to match the existing wall. The gate piers were constructed in coursed random rubble with granite finish, using traditional stonemasonry methods. Three electric gated access points and a double-leaf pedestrian gate were constructed.
Manholes, drainage runs and gullies were installed, using 450mm and 225mm pipes. The new attenuation area was lined with geotextile and stone. Ducting and chambers were installed for foul water, storm water, telecoms, fibre-optics, traffic signals, ESB and public lighting. Diversions were required for public lighting, existing overhead EIR service, existing water-main, and comms for automatic gates. Structural work included two headwall structures and culverting of the Ballyogan Stream.
The works included the provision of service runs to future proof the site for subsequent stages of development that will include wind turbines, photovoltaic panels and other renewable energy elements. These investments will help achieve a near zero energy status for Fernhill Park & Gardens in the future.