Mayo set to benefit from Forest Parks funding

€224,441 in funding has been allocated for the improvement of recreational facilities in Mayo, including €150,000 for capital works at Belleek, Ballina.

Minister of State, Dara Calleary is ‘delighted’ with the allocation of €150,000 for the rejuvenation of ponds in Belleek Woods, Ballina. "On so many levels, Belleek is a jewel in our crown-investments such as this will help us protect its nature and biodiversity whilst enhancing its attractiveness to visitors,” continued Minister Calleary.

Newly released figures showed that just under 87,000 people visited and used Belleek in 2023.

Additionally, facilities including walking trails, car parks and toilet facilities will be improved by the funding announced by the Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys.

Minister of State, Alan Dillon, welcomed the funding, and expressed how the funding will benefit ‘everyone who enjoys these amenities, not just in Summer, but all year round’.

“The pandemic highlighted the benefits of getting out and enjoying our great outdoors and more people now make time to regularly visit our beaches, lakes, mountains and forests. This investment underscores the importance of keeping these amenities at a high standard,” he added.

The investment is part of a strategic partnership between the Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte to maintain and manage existing trails in Coillte forests, and to develop new recreation opportunities.

Mr Michael Ring TD commented: “Maintaining and upgrading our facilities at these forest parks will enhance their appeal and encourage people to get out in nature more.  I am particularly pleased with the capital allocation to Belleek Wood, Ballina which is in the top ten most visited Coillte Parks (non-ticketed), with a visitor number of 86,879 in 2023.”

“I would encourage everybody to make use of these wonderful facilities in Mayo,” concluded Deputy Ring.

See below the list of maintenance works receiving funding:Ballinamore: General maintenance.

Barraglanna: General maintenance.

Belleek wood :General maintenance, dangerous trees, blowing leaves etc.

Brackloon wood: No parking signage and directional signage.

Breaffy: No parking signage and directional signage.

Carrowntleva: General maintenance

Castlemagarrett (Claremorris): Rhododendron control; general maintenance

Drummin: Strimming of paths; general maintenance

Knockranny (Westport): Dangerous trees to be removed

Moore Hall / Towerhill: General maintenance

Nephin more (Lahardane): Wet section of walking trail to be resurfacing

Raheens: Resurfacing paths

Sheskin: Signage, Markers, trailheads replacement

Teevenish: General maintenance

Tourmakeady: Rhododendron control and path upgrade works