Forest park trails to reopen in July

Forest park trails to reopen in July

25 June 2025

REPAIR work at Tievenadarragh Forest near Drumaness, which was ravaged by the worst storm in a generation at the start of the year, is to be completed next month.

Storm Éowyn wreaked havoc across the district, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake, with trails at the local forest blocked by fallen trees.

Confirmation that the forest is to reopen to the public, almost six months after it was closed due to the storm damage, has been welcomed by South Down MLA Cathy Mason.

The repair work is being carried out by Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

Mrs Mason said work to pave the way for public access to the forest is “long overdue”.

She continued: “It’s is great to finally see progress. Tievenadarragh is a beautiful space for our local community so this is a really welcome update.

“This is an important step to ensure that our community hub is restored to provide an area of great potential for our local residents and for their wellbeing.”

She said Sinn Fein has always worked to ensure this stunning area is restored for the benefit of everyone, insisting her party will continue to work with the local authority to ensure this space and the community it serves are prioritised.

“Tievenadarragh forest is an area that deserves to be celebrated and this work will benefit all in South Down,” said Mrs Mason.

“I and my party councillors have been working closely with the council and will continue to do so to ensure that this vital community resource is reopened and repaired.”