Public views sought on developing forestry sites

The forestry sites currently subject to consideration for Development Plans are Drumcairne Forest on the outskirts of Stewartstown; Altmore Forest near Cappagh; and Dunmoyle Forest just north of Ballygawley.

While there is currently some degree of access to the three forest sites, formal facilities are limited and the Council recognises that more needs to be done in order to unlock the potential of the three forests as another alternative for outdoor recreation in the Mid Ulster area, as well as developing a valuable community resource.

The consultation is being facilitated on behalf of the Council by Outdoor Recreation NI.

Members of the public are invited to express their views on the future development of any of the three forest sites by taking part in the Council’s online surveys.

The closing date for survey feedback is midnight on Sunday, April 18.

Outdoor Recreation NI will also be hosting virtual public information events in Mid-April for each of the forest sites to supplement ideas and trends emerging from the surveys.

To complete a survey and to pre-register for a public information event you can do so at the Council’s website.

Council Chair, Councillor Cathal Mallaghan encouraged those living near to the forests in particular to participate in the scoping studies.

“Access to outdoor recreation nearby is an important part of making our urban and rural communities resilient during the pandemic recovery in the months to come,” he said.

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