Our cities are getting noisier and the impact of environmental noise pollution on human health is well documented.
The sounds in the People’s Park, in the heart of Limerick’s Georgian Quarter, are characterised mainly by natural sounds such as birdsong, an oasis amid the hustle and bustle of the city. For its tranquility the park was designated a “Quiet Area” in March 2026 under the Environmental Noise Regulations following approval by the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment. This is a milestone being Ireland's first designation outside Dublin and the first based on a citizen science - listening - approach.
The designation does not provide a noise limit or prevent noisy activities in the park but raises awareness of the benefit of high quality sounds for citizens and visitors health and wellbeing and recognises and prioritises the park in future urban planning.
The Quiet Area designation has been part of a broader programme of actions under the Agglomeration of Limerick Noise Action Plan 2023-2028.