WHERE IS THE COW

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THIS POPULAR BRONZE COW HAS BEEN RELOCATED TO WOOD QUAY

The bronze cow sculpture, aptly titled "Ag Crú na Gréine" or "Enjoying the Sun," was indeed a beloved feature of Wolfe Tone Park in Dublin. Crafted by Jackie McKenna, the life-sized cow was particularly popular with children who would often climb and play on it.

The relocation of the sculpture to Wood Quay in 2020 was intended to be temporary, while Wolfe Tone Park underwent a significant redevelopment project. However, years later, the cow remains at Wood Quay, tucked away and out of sight. This has caused disappointment among many locals, especially those with young children who fondly remember the cow as a part of their childhood experiences in the park.

The redevelopment of Wolfe Tone Park, which was completed in two phases between 2020 and 2023, has transformed the space significantly.

In 2016, the park was a simple green space with some mature trees and a central lawn. Today, it boasts a more structured design with a new feature lawn, additional seating areas, and improved lighting. Notably, despite earlier plans, the redevelopment did not include a playground, which has been a point of contention for some, especially families with young children. The historical significance of the park as a former graveyard is also more prominently acknowledged, with information panels and a respectful layout.

Public opinion on the redevelopment is divided. Many welcome the upgraded facilities and the more polished appearance of the park. However, others lament the loss of the park's former simplicity and the removal of some of the mature trees. The absence of the bronze cow and the lack of a playground are also common complaints, with many feeling that these elements added a unique and playful dimension to the park that is now missing.

In conclusion, the bronze cow sculpture holds a special place in the hearts of many Dubliners. Its continued absence from Wolfe Tone Park, along with the lack of a playground, is a source of disappointment for some, who feel that their return would restore beloved pieces of the park's identity. While the park's redevelopment has undoubtedly brought improvements, the loss of these elements serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between modernisation and the preservation of cherished features in public spaces.