Group called for to manage woodland

Group called for to manage woodland

19 August 2015

PLANS have been unveiled to form a new environmental group to manage two woodland areas in Newcastle.

Councillor Willie Clarke has expressed concern about the untidy state of Donard Forest and Newcastle Demesne, describing them as an “eyesore and a health hazard.” He said people who camp in both areas leave behind their tents and rubbish which has started to accumulate, leaving both particularly untidy.

Councillor Clarke, who has organised community clean-ups in both areas before, said he is concerned at the “continued neglect” of both locations, confirming he has been in contact with the owners of both sites.

“These areas have been left in an untidy state and used as dumping grounds over the years and this situation cannot be allowed to continue. This area is the main access into the Mournes and in addition to the rubbish problems, there is a need for new signs to be erected along with the provision of litter bins,” he said.

“I have raised my concerns with those responsible for these areas and hope the problems which are blighting these particular locations can be addressed.”

Confirming he has previously organised community clean-ups at Donard Forest and the Newcastle Demesne, Councillor Clarke said the locations attract illegal campers which results in people drinking alcohol and leaving a large accumulation of litter behind them.

He added: “I will be organising a meeting with the intention of forming an environmental community group to manage the woodland, initially just to carry out cleansing duties. Through time I would like the group to manage the woodland in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down Council, the Woodland Trust, Shimna College and the Newcastle harbour community group.”