Bunkers Hill trails get upgrade for disabled

Bunkers Hill trails get upgrade for disabled

16 March 2016

A POPULAR new Castlewellan walking and cycling trail has been improved to allow greater disabled access and new shelters.

Over 30,000 people visited the Bunkers Hill walking trails in its first year and Newry, Mourne and Down Council recently carried out a number of new developments to improve the area.

Bunkers Hill, which opened in November 2014, includes a two kilometre multi-use walk and family cycling trail along with an innovative play trail designed to encourage young people to enjoy outdoor adventure in a safe environment.  

The trails which offer outstanding views of Slieve Croob, Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains have proved very popular with local people and visitors.

The recent improvements include resurfacing of the lane way leading to a new two disabled car parking space, accessible through a gate with a coded lock. The multi-use trails have also been enhanced by providing two wooden shelters at key view points along with the installation of dog waste bins. 

Those wishing to access the disabled parking space can do so by contacting Newry, Mourne and Down District Council on 03000 132 233 to obtain the access code. 

The recent upgrades were led by Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland following a Community Consultation Event.  The project was funded by the legacy Down District Council.

“It is pleasing to deliver this project as one of Outdoor Recreation NI’s final actions of our management role for Mourne Forests,” explained Boyd McClurg, Mourne Forests Recreation Officer.  

“It provides great satisfaction to be able to deliver on an action specifically requested by the local community and leave a positive legacy.

“I would personally like to thank all the members of the local community who aided me in my role and proactively providing feedback on the recreation facilities.” added Boyd.