The story behind the shortlisted names

The suggested names of “Cotty Bridge” and “Foundry Bridge” are links to the history of the local area with the many mills and factories that were a feature of this part of Belfast.  A lot of local people would be familiar with one of these mills or factories, many would have worked in them or knew family members who did. The Springfield Dam itself, was used to provide the water to cool some of the machinery and as outflow of wastewater.

“Seven Cygnets Bridge” was provided by a local person who, while visiting the site, saw the resident pair of mute swans and their seven cygnets and so submitted this as their suggestion.  Along with the other waterfowl, who are resident or migrants to the park, the mute swans are a key feature and talking point for visitors both young and old.

Some of the local names for Springfield Park are “Sprinky Park” or “Sprinky Dam” and therefore it was no surprise that “Spring Bridge” was one of the suggested names.   Although these local names were not submitted, the panel felt that the “Spring Bridge” suggestion was close and therefore should be included.