Murlough 'Torn up' by joyriders

Murlough 'Torn up' by joyriders

11 October 2023

CRITICALLY important conservation areas within the Murlough National Nature Reserve have been damaged by quad bikers.

Paths and trails within the fragile 6,000 year old sand dune system at the edge of Dundrum Bay and the Mournes are also in need of repair, with police warning that those responsible have committed a criminal offence.

The National Trust — which is responsible for the internationally recognised nature reserve — has also expressed its concern at the damage which was caused over the past few weeks.

It’s being reported that the bikes have literally “torn up” paths and trails at what became Ireland’s first nature reserve almost 60 years ago, with both the PSNI and Environment Agency investigating the recent incidents.

National Trust ranger Simon Easton said it was believed that up to three quad bikes are being ridden around the Reserve with “increasing frequency” with damage being caused to significantly sensitive areas.

He said the quads were being ridden in an aggressive manner, tearing up paths and sand dunes with particular concern about the machines being ridden through fragile areas of salt marsh which is one of the protected habitats at Murlough under its various designations.

They include Area of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation which is a European designation.

Mr Easton said the designations protect certain features of the Reserve, one of which is the salt marsh which is being damaged.

“The quad bikes are riding through this fragile area and are also tearing up paths and joy riding around the dunes which is causing damage to the sand dune system as well,” he continued.

“The National Trust and the emergency services use quads at Murlough as part of our work, but this is done in a careful and controlled manner.”

Mr Easton said these machines were not being ridden in the manner of those responsible for the recent damage.

He said it was “deeply disappointing” to see the damage that has been caused.

“We spend our days looking after and protecting what is a really special place for us and for our visitors and local community,” Mr Easton continued.

“For us to come in and find damage of this nature is really disappointing and sad to see. It’s the same for anyone when you see your hard work being negatively affected in this way. It is very disappointing.”

Mr Easton said the district was fortunate to have an asset such as the Murlough Nature Reserve on its doorstep.

“The National Trust is all about looking after these beautiful places for the benefit of everyone and indeed wildlife,” he said.

“Alongside the damage these guys are causing to the habitat, there is also disturbance to wildlife. Not at this time of year, but we do have ground nesting birds and cattle on the Reserve and some of the routes these people have been taking on the quads are very close to the area where seals come out of the water to rest, relax and have their pups.

“Seals are obviously one of the protected features of the site as well. Even if these guys get close to the seals and scare them back into the sea, they could be leaving their pups vulnerable on the beach.”

Police have confirmed those responsible for the trouble could be prosecuted and that officers are to increase patrols in the area

“Not only have these machines torn up paths and trails, they have also caused damage to conservation areas within the reserve,” said a PSNI spokesperson.

“We will continue our patrols in the reserve and in the areas surrounding it. We are very lucky to have such an amazing space to enjoy on our doorstep.”

Anyone who can assist police with their enquiries or who sees quads or scramblers in the area around the Reserve is asked to get in touch using the non-emergency 101 number, while information can be provided anonymously using the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.