The original Cowpark site of approximately 35 acres was transferred by the Dyas estate to the Department of Lands in 1948 with the understanding that the area was to be used to provide pasture for one cow and one calf for local people who had no land of their own. This cow plot area was established under the Pasturage and Tillage Scheme of the Land Acts 1903-1933. Later on, the Department of Food, Agriculture and Rural Development (the “DAFRD”) decided to dispose of such plots where they no longer fulfilled the aim of the original scheme.
In 2001, the area was transferred to Meath County Council and the Athboy Social Needs & Recreational Company worked with the local authority on the provision of amenity facilities for the community. The area was named the “Cowpark” to acknowledge the history of the site within the community.
Nowadays, the Cowpark remains a community amenity owned by Meath County Council that incorporates a playground, Athboy Community Allotments, Athboy Celtic F.C. soccer grounds and the Cowpark Walkway. The Cowpark Walkway area is conserved in an eco-friendly way whilst allowing the Athboy community to appreciate our natural heritage.
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