Allotments could be created in Castlewellan

Allotments could be created in Castlewellan

22 July 2015

LOCAL council officials have been asked to identify land to develop new community allotments in Castlewellan.

Councillor Patrick Clarke believes the grounds of the town’s forest park would be an ideal location for such a venture to assist horticultural enthusiasts and people wishing to enjoy growing their own vegetables.

He has raised the issue with Newry, Mourne and Down Council chief executive Liam Hannaway and senior council officials and is hoping for a positive outcome. Councillor Clarke said if the forest park is deemed unsuitable, he hopes other locations in Castlewellan will be actively considered.

While a member of the former Down Council, the local politician suggested the creation of allotments in Castlewellan, Newcastle and Dundrum should be considered with local authority officials working alongside the Housing Executive to identify suitable locations.

Councillor Clarke said there is “positive interest” in the Castlewellan area for the provision of allotments and explained the former Down Council had planned to provide allotments at the town’s forest park close to the glasshouses at the walled garden.

He continued: “The development of allotments would provide an opportunity for people who do not have gardens to grow their own food. But I believe there are also educational and health benefits associated with allotments.

“I hope the new council will be able to help pave the way for the provision of allotments and hope it can work with the local community to help ensure they are delivered.”

Councillor Clarke believes allotments can help raise the self-esteem of people who may unfortunately find 

themselves unemployed or suffering from mental health issues such as depression.

He added: “Allotments have the potential to provide wonderful, positive benefits to people in terms of improving their health and well-being and an opportunity to interact with others. “I am sure there are many who would support Newry Mourne and Down Council in establishing community allotments in either Castlewellan Forest Park or on alternative location in the town.”