Updates sought in relation to progress of Cloonamahon Native Woodland Park

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

Calls for a progress report in relation to the planned 105 acre Cloonamahon Native Woodland Park were made at the November monthly meeting of Sligo County Council with Cllr Thomas Walsh seeking clarification as it is now almost four years since then Minister of State Pippa Hackett turned the first sod on the project.

Cllr Walsh called on the local authority, “To advise on what, if any, communication they have had with the HSE on this project since that time and what plans are in place to work collaboratively to ensure the potential of these lands are realised.”

Cllr Walsh said the proposed project offers, “massive potential for the area and the county,” saying the location is 10km from Sligo town and is situated just off the N4. He explained €300,000 was allocated a number of years for the provision of a sensory garden. Cllr Walsh noted “It hasn’t moved too far,” adding, “There needs to be an urgency, this was launched in 2022.”

Cllr Walsh acknowledged, “The forest and trail has developed, we need to move on to the next phase.”

Supporting the motion Cllr Gerard Mullaney said, “105 acres is very sizable,” adding, “It offers huge potential for tourism and for communities. We are lucky to have it in the county, I only hope the potential is managed properly.”

Cllr Donal Gilroy added, “It is disappointing there has been no correspondence from the HSE recently.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.