THE minister at the helm of a leading government department has welcomed a proposal to create Northern Ireland’s first ever tree top walk at Castlewellan Forest Park.
The potential for the innovative project to be based at the park — which is currently undergoing a multi-million pound revamp – is currently being investigated ahead of work starting on a business case.
Newry, Mourne and Down Council is working in partnership with EAK Ireland, a leader in creating nature-based experiences and in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Forest Service which has agreed to explore the project’s feasibility.
The aim is to create a sustainable visitor experience that provides close-to-nature recreation and showcases the natural beauty of the park, while providing an adventurous and educational attraction for both residents and visitors.
The proposed walk would be the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, offering visitors the chance to immerse
themselves in the forest canopy, enjoy breathtaking views and engage with the park’s rich biodiversity from a whole new perspective.
The various partners are to start conducting the necessary assessments to ensure that the project aligns and delivers on sustainable tourism, supporting the local economy and benefitting the local community.
As part of the project development, an assessment on the potential impact of the project on traffic and the existing road network will be required, with mitigation measures developed for the area. Early engagement with residents and businesses will also be a key focus during the development of the proposed attraction.
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has welcomed the project.
“This proposal comes in addition to already planned investment in facilities and has the possibility to enhance both Castlewellan Forest Park’s
recreational value to the local community and its visitor
appeal to this scenic Mournes area and Northern Ireland,” he added.
Council chairman Pete Byrne said the proposed tree top walk aligned closely with the organisation’s goal for enhancing sustainable tourism.
“It is envisioned as a project that will boost the local economy by attracting visitors from across the region and beyond, while also serving as a model for low-impact, environmentally sensitive development,” he added.
Tom McArdle from EAK Ireland Treetop Walks, said the success of a tree top walk in Avondale in Co Wicklow showed the potential for this type of tourism attraction.
“We believe it would bring many benefits to the local area and surrounding region. We look forward to working alongside the council and others to bring this world class amenity to fruition,” he added.
Tourism NI’s Director of Strategic Development, David Roberts, said the organisation “welcomes this innovative proposal” which would add to the high-quality tourism and hospitality offering that we have in the area.
He added: “Northern Ireland is renowned for its natural landscapes and outdoor spaces. The proposed Treetop Walk in Castlewellan Forest Park, already a magnet for people with its activities and trails, would act as an anchor attraction for visitors who can then go on to explore the wider area.”