Dún an Rí Masterplan launched

A new masterplan to guide the future development of Dún an Rí Forest Park was launched by Minister Heather Humphreys.

The Masterplan, commissioned by Cavan County Council on behalf of the Cavan Local Area Group and in partnership with Coillte, was delivered with funding from the LEADER programme as part of a cooperation project with Monaghan and Louth County Councils. The plan presents a vision for the future of the park with a series of projects for delivery over the next 5-10 years. It was researched and developed by The Paul Hogarth Company, and compiled in close consultation with local stakeholders and the local community.

The plan, launched last Saturday, provides a long-term vision and roadmap for the park which considers the environmental, economic, heritage and social impacts and benefits for the park and the wider area.

A public consultation process was undertaken to ensure the views of the wider community and all stakeholders were captured.

The document will be used to inform future projects in the park, visitor planning, infrastructure, biodiversity, trails, and interpretation. The document will also be used to support funding applications for future projects in the park.

Already, funding has been secured to deliver a natural play area for Dún an Rí through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.

This project is at design stage and will go to tender for construction later this year. In addition, the extension of the Boyne Valley Greenway into Dún an Rí will deliver extra visitors to the park and to Kingscourt in general.

The overall masterplan for Dún an Rí will ensure the long-term protection of the asset that is the forest park for the benefit of the local community, visitors and future generations.

Joanne Hayes, Cavan County Tourism Officer said: "This is a good news day for Kingscourt and the wider area, this new masterplan cements a commitment by Cavan County Council and Coillte to the sustainable development of Dún an Rí, as a place for biodiversity, walking, exploring and enjoying nature. Developments such as the new play area and the greenway will doubtless ensure more visitors will enjoy this special place, spend time locally and make a contribution to the local economy".