Horse riders set for return to forest park

Horse riders set for return to forest park

26 April 2017

HORSE riding trails will reopen in Castlewellan Forest Park next Monday.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council has confirmed the freshly marked trails will reopen to the public on Monday, May 8.

The news follows the council’s controversial decision, in the New Year, to stop horse riders using the local forest trails because of tree felling.

After a massive public backlash, which attracted thousands of online objectors, the council indicated it would urgently explore alternatives to ensure horse riding could continue to be safely accommodated within the forest park during tree maintenance.

A council spokeswoman this week confirmed freshly marked trails were now ready to be opened to the public.

The trails, which will be free to individual horse riders, may also be used by groups subject to council approval and a fee.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairwoman, Gillian Fitzpatrick, said the council had taken the initiative in developing the horse riding trails as an interim measure, pending a longer term solution. 

“It has become obvious that the forest is a much loved place for horse riders and the council hopes that these newly way-marked trails will cater for all,” she said.

The news has been cautiously welcomed by Noel Gallagher, who runs Mount Pleasant Equestrian Centre which enjoys direct access to the park.

He was among those to react against the New Year policy, warning it would decimate his business while affecting hundreds of people who use the centre for rehabilitation.

Mr Gallagher said he was happy a solution had been found for the forthcoming summer season, but concerned that it may not be a full-time resolution.

He said he was disappointed by the lack of communication offered by council staff since early January.

“The fact this is being described as an interim measure does not mean enough to me,” he said.

“I remain in limbo when it comes to developing my business. I have plans to introduce camping pods to the site and expand the services I offer but I cannot do that until I know what the council’s longterm plan is.”