Public consultation on first tree top walk in forest park

Public consultation on first tree top walk in forest park

29 October 2025

PUBLIC consultation on plans for Northern Ireland’s first ever tree top walk in Castlewellan Forest Park takes place next week.

The November 5 event is being held at The Lodge in the town between 5pm and 8pm with anyone interested in the £7m project asked to go along.

It’s being suggested the tree top walk could open in 2027 if all the necessary approvals, including planning permission, fall into place.

Newry, Mourne and Down councillors were recently presented with an update on the multi-million pound scheme by representatives from EAK Ireland, a leader in creating nature-based experiences.

The local authority is developing the tree top walk at the 1,100 acre forest park — which is currently undergoing a multi-million pound revamp — in partnership with EAK and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and Forest Service.

Council officials are confident the project can attract an additional 220,000 visitors each year to the sprawling park, positioning Castlewellan as a “standout destination” within both the regional and national tourism offering.

Stormont environment minister Andrew Muir and Tourism NI are backing the proposal, which is expected to create 33 construction jobs during its development and  32 permanent operational roles once it opens.

An outline business case paving the way for work on the tree top walk to start has been approved by local politicians, with consultants to be appointed to spearhead detailed design work and necessary infrastructure planning.

Discussions are also continuing with the Forest Service regarding land agreements that will enable development within the stunning park.

Council officials say the aim is to create a sustainable visitor experience that provides close-to-nature recreation and showcases the natural beauty of the park, while providing an adventurous and educational attraction for both residents and visitors. 

The proposed walk would be the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the forest canopy, enjoy breathtaking views and engage with the park’s rich biodiversity from a whole new perspective.

The various partners have conducted the necessary assessments to ensure that the project aligns and delivers on sustainable tourism, supporting the local economy and benefitting the local community. 

As part of the project, an assessment on the potential impact of the project on traffic and the existing road network will be required, with mitigation measures developed for the area. 

Council officials recognise early engagement with residents and businesses will also be a key focus during the development of the proposed attraction.

EAK visited many possible new sites across the country, with Castlewellan’s forest park the preferred venue.

The company says the success of its treetop walk in Avondale in Co Wicklow shows the potential for this type of tourism attraction in Castlewellan which has the potential to bring many benefits to the local area and surrounding region. 

Tourism NI is also keen to see the tree top walk delivered at the forest park and says it would add to the high-quality tourism and hospitality offering the area has to offer.