Overall Developmental Approach
The material submitted with the entry form was very helpful and shows that the work of the association is very active and dedicated to making substantial improvements. The 12-point future plans of the Moyvane development association show a great commitment by the association. Many of the items achieved to date would not have been achieved but for the persistence and determination of the association. Continued planning and monitoring of progress is important each year so that stock can be taken of achievements and efforts can be refocused.
The Built Environment
There is a very good standard of building appearance on the street sides through the village. Attention to paint and general décor is very good. There are some exceptions but these are a small minority and as such appear prominent. Hopefully these can be resolved soon. The Village renewal grant can be put to good use. The Co-Op looks very well as does the church and school. The old national school walled entrance gate on the street is a fine structure. The welcome signs are an attractive feature at each entry road to the village. There is much disruption on the Glin road due to building developments – hopefully all this area will be reinstated properly when the work is complete. The surface of the church carpark is very raw and hopefully this can be resurfaced properly in the near future. The Lime Kiln project will add to the lore of interesting building features in the village.
Landscaping
The tree planting over the past few years in the main street is now developing well and having a pleasing effect. Similarly the street side shrubberies – these add greatly to the main street and give a very warm and lush appearance. The shrub plantings on the Listowel road are also attractive although the weediness of the surrounding kerbs detracts a little from them. Many individual premises along the streets have presented attractive planted containers and these add a good sparkle of colour to the village. The bog oak and stook of turf on the Glin road make a good feature but their setting needs a little attention to give them a better presentation.
Wildlife and Natural Amenities
The wildlife walk is a great feature and the extension of this is a wonderful idea – it is great to be able to take an alternative route other than the road and observe a range of wild plants. Some more information about the walk and help with the identification of plants along the way would be helpful.
Litter Control
Litter control is well managed through the village Having the National School, Youth Club and Village residents involved in campaigns is a great idea – this not only achieves a practical result but also instills a spirit of appreciation of litter freedom for the village. The litterbins were noted.
Tidiness
The difficulties of derelict and lapsed care buildings and sites together with disruption from building developments such as at the Glin road – all offer challenges. However there is a great confidence and a strong commitment noticeable in the submission and the activities of the association are sure to meet these challenges with a successful outcome.
Residential Areas
Individual houses along the roadsides and within the village are well tended. The buildings on the main street approaching from the Knockanure road look very well. It is good to have so many residences within the village keeping a life spirit within the village. The housing estates are well cared for – Woodgrove appears to have received a boost benefiting from the landscaping associated with the new Bruach na Gaile estate. This new estate looks well although it appears unoccupied. More tree planting in these new areas would be welcome to unite with the background of existing mature trees which give a great foil for the entire estate. The new estate on the Knockanure road entrance was also noted.
Roads, Streets and Back Areas
While road surfaces are in good condition the associated footpaths are frequently inconsistent with the standard of the roads. Some footpaths are broken or weedy and an approach to a complete renewal of these is needed. As mentioned above – on the Listowel road some attention to weeds surrounding the planted islands is needed. The carpark of the church hopefully will be resurfaced.
General Impression
Moyvane gives a very good impression on entering the main street – the well painted buildings and care and attention to premises together with good road surfaces shows a village that is being well cared for. There are always areas requiring attention and improvement and the active committee appears to be taking these very seriously.
