Significant public realm works are proposed, both within the existing courtyards and in the surrounding park. Originally working yards, the existing courtyards have never been open to the public and are not currently suitable for public access in terms of gradient and surface. New hard and soft landscaping will be installed throughout to provide level, gently sloping and alternative stepped routes through the courtyards, and wheelchair and buggy access to all existing and new buildings within the courtyards.
A clear pedestrian route from the Castle will be created through the courtyards, while each courtyard can be accessed or closed off individually to allow maximum flexibility in use. Soft landscaped areas will be incorporated throughout and the use of bat / bird boxes to encourage biodiversity. The public realm in this development offer new public amenity spaces to the residents and visitors of Rathfarnham and the walled garden offers the opportunity to facilitate markets, classes or events.