Mournes body receives £3m environment funding boost

Mournes body receives £3m environment funding boost

6 March 2013

A NEW initiative aimed at regenerating and protecting the Mournes has secured a £3m funding boost.

The Mourne Heritage Trust has secured the money to finance the Mourne Landscape Partnership initiative which will work directly with the local community and landowners to secure the future of the Mournes.

The cash has been made available by the Heritage Lottery Fund and other agencies and will also be used to protect and enhance the environment of the Mournes, promote its natural and built heritage and ensure future generations have information and knowledge about the importance of the area as a place of work and source of income.

The announcement has been welcomed by South Down MP Margaret Ritchie and Newcastle councillor Willie Clarke.

Miss Ritchie said the Mourne Heritage Trust has secured a “sound footing” for the regeneration and protection of the Mournes and the communities that live there.

“We must ensure the Mournes remain a special living and working environment for local people,” the MP continued.

“I very much welcome the aim of this project which is to ensure that the people living and working in the Mournes are part of the protection, development and regeneration of the area. I look forward to the development of the project and the partnership in the months and years to come.”

Councillor Willie Clarke said the partnership aims to enhance the conservation of the natural, built and cultural heritage of the Mournes, explaining one element includes the expansion of the Newcastle granite trail to include Drinevaar Quarry.

“New trail signage will also be provided at what is a great walking route which provides a snapshot of the area’s rich cultural history. The new partnership will ensure lasting management of the Mournes, helping tackle footpath erosion and repairing damaged stone walls,” he explained.

Councillor Clarke said the partnership’s intentions also include protecting heathland, repairing monuments, making recreation sustainable and developing trails which will enhance what he described as the “Mourne experience.” He said there will also be an exciting opportunity for local communities to learn about traditional crafts and stories from the area.