Forest canopy walk plans move forward

Forest canopy walk plans move forward

18 June 2025

AMBITIOUS plans for a new tourist attraction at Castlewellan Forest Park have taken a major step forward.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s Economy Regeneration and Tourism Committee has agreed to approve an outline business case for a treetop walk.

The proposed scheme would be the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the forest canopy and enjoy breathtaking views.

The aim is to create a sustainable visitor experience which will showcase the natural beauty of the park. 

It is understood that money will be made available for a design team to be put in place.

The approval was given at a meeting of the council committee last week.

The news has been welcomed by a number of local councillors, including the SDLP’s Laura Devlin and Róisín Howell from Sinn Féin.

Cllr Devlin was part of a council fact-finding delegation which visited a similar facility in Co Wicklow last November.

She said she was “blown away” by what she saw.

“The capital works were done in such a way that preserved and enhanced the surrounding woodland,” she remarked.

“The park was not only a joy to walk around, but also had huge educational value too.”

Cllr Devlin said the scheme was much-needed for the area, particularly after collapse of the Mourne gondola project, which she described as a “disappointing blow”.

She said she hoped the views of the Castlewellan community would be taken into consideration.

She added: “We have such a stunning landscape, but I was always told by tourism experts that we needed tourism hooks to attract the visitors and retain them, and their spend, in the District for longer, so let’s hope this project continues to progress and develop so that the wider economy can benefit.”

Cllr Howell said she was delighted that “we are now one step closer to delivering this unique and exciting experience to our town.”

She continued: ”This will be a very welcome update for our local businesses and economy, and for residents and tourists alike.

“Sinn Féin will continue to work with the council and ensure that this project is delivered in Castlewellan.

South Down Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason also welcomed the project.

She said: ”The treetop walk project will boost our local tourism sector, promote health and wellbeing, and provide an interactive and immersive experience for Castlewellan.

“We look forward to its delivery and the benefits that it will bring.”