Pod Pairc a positive step for rural areas

Ireland’s first ‘Pod Pairc’ is a shining example of community cohesion, according Fianna Fáil Agriculture spokesman Eamon Ó Cuiv.

Mon, 23 Jun, 2014 - 01:00

Louise Rosengrave

Opening the Top of the Rock Pod Park in Drimoleague, West Cork, he said the venture represented a positivity and imagination central to rural development projects.

Mr Ó Cuiv said Ireland’s resources offer “limitless potential” for local communities to create opportunities. “With motivation anything is possible. What we really need is motivated people,” he said.

The seven wooden pod structures, which offer panoramic views across Castledonovan, provide accommodation for increasing numbers of walkers along the ‘Camino de Cork’ route linking Drimoleague to Gougane Barra.

Proprietors David and Elizabeth Ross had been involved in the establishment of the Drimoleague Heritage Walkway project, and developed the pod park with the support of Leader funding from the West Cork Development Partnership. Ian Dempsey, WCDP chief executive, said the pod park evolved from an idea borne within the community having first met the Rosses in 2006.

“We ask communities to look at the abundance of natural resources, develop the heritage of their local areas and become custodians of community projects,” said Mr Dempsey.

“The pod park represents a perfect synthesis of what Leader is about.”

An engineer visiting Ireland 20 years ago hit upon the idea for the pod’s distinctive design. The structure is based on the corbel-roofed Gallarus Church in Dingle, which dates from between the seventh and eighth centuries.

Manufactured in Lixnaw, Co Kerry, by Cisco Woodframe Homes, the constructed pods began to arrive at the Rosses’ farm on the back of a lorry late last year.

David Ross said it was a joy to see families, couples, and walking clubs using the pod park as a base for exploration since the park began receiving guests in the spring.

“It’s very satisfying to hear children laughing out in the park,” said Mr Dempsey. “There are incredible challenges ahead, but we thank God for a good start.”