The design for a new six-hectare (14.83 acre) park alongside the Royal Canal in the centre of Dublin has been unveiled.

The Royal Canal Linear Park has been designed by Paris-based architect Agence Ter following an international competition organised by Dublin Docklands Development Agency (DDDA) and the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI).

The one-kilometre long public space will include playgrounds, a kayak centre and multi-sport platforms, as well as floating gardens. The first phase of construction of the park, which will stretch between the city's North Strand Road and the River Liffey, is due to start at the end of this year and is expected to be complete by mid-2010.

John McLaughlin, the DDDAs director of architecture, said: "The Royal Canal Linear Park will create a new space for the city that will be modern, innovative and highly user-friendly. This is a park that has been designed to be used and appreciated by all of Dublin's citizens whether they want to relax, be active or appreciate the greenery."

As part of the design competition for the park, candidates were asked to assume a construction budget of 15m euro (£11.72m). The park is also part of a wider regeneration scheme in Dublin's docklands, which includes the upgrade of storm defences and a new development in the Spencer Dock area.