Public to be consulted on proposed forestry projects in Meath
Local councillors and residents will have a say in the examination of potential forestry projects planned for Meath.
At the October meeting for Meath County Council, Fine Gael councillor Paddy Meade called for the immediate suspension of proposed forestry schemes at Polecastle, Lobinstown and Footstown Great.
He said the projects should be paused pending full consultation with elected members, residents of Lobinstown Parish, and a detailed review of the community’s housing, agricultural, and recreational needs.
The motion comes in response to a recent visit by Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae, TD, during which Meath County Council confirmed that the three sites had been advanced to the assessment stage for forestry schemes.
During the Minister’s visit, the council showcased progress in key areas such as biodiversity, climate action, community development, heritage, and environmental protection.
It also highlighted its partnerships with the Centre of Food Culture and Boyne Valley Flavours.
Cllr Meade argued that community needs must take precedence before any forestry plans are advanced.
“It’s very simple. I am looking for consultation with the councillors and the public,” he said.
“Some of the lands are located in and around Lobinstown, some of it in the village that could be used for housing, high quality land, some of it could be used for sports areas and such.”
In the council’s response, they said the local authority has agreed to work with the Forestry Division to undertake initial assessments of the Polecastle, Lobinstown and Footstown Great sites to determine whether woodland creation may be feasible.
"Options under consideration may include native woodland, NeighbourWoods for public recreation, or agroforestry,” the council said.
They added that the process is still at an early stage and that no commitments have been made to establish forestry at any of the named locations or elsewhere in the county.
"We will continue to engage with DAFM officials to assess the suitability of local authority-owned lands for woodland creation and/or agroforestry demonstration.”
"Elected Members and residents will be engaged comprehensively as part of any future suitability assessments under the national Forestry Programme 2023–2027. Any evaluation will incorporate community, housing, and agricultural considerations.”