Small Moves, Big Impact
Meeting / Congregating / Dwelling Points
One of the objectives of the Village Ideas initiative is to priorities pedestrians over vehicles. Given the age profile of the population (there are five elder care and sheltered living facilities in the village) this is particularly important to enable elderly people feel safe when out and about and encourage them to walk and dwell in the village. It is well documented that social encounters are critical for health and wellbeing.
There are anecdotal stories from residents in the local nursing homes and sheltered living facilities that the traffic volumes, uneven paths and absence of dwelling points impact on their motivation to visit the village. They are being denied access to an amenity because of the poor infrastructure.
Indeed, having convenient areas to congregate other than in / outside businesses is a really important foundation and could add significantly to the wellbeing of residents and visitors alike.
Below are examples of what these meeting points could look like.
Cost Guesstimates
Welcome to Sandymount signage
In granite at Tesco, Sandymount Avenue and Seafort Triangle, board on posts in 2 other locations - €19,000
Design 10%, contingency 20%, VAT 23% total approx. 60% - €11,400
TOTAL €30,400
