Draft plan for Kingscourt forest park invites public feedback

The public is being invited to have its say on the draft masterplan that has been prepared for Dun na Ri Forest Park in Kingscourt.

Cavan County Council, on behalf of Cavan Local Action Group (LAG), recently launched the consultation process on the draft masterplan for the park and is inviting the public to view the draft proposals and provide their feedback.

Information boards are located outside McNally's Pharmacy and at Kingscourt Community Centre and give an overview of the proposals which include upgrading existing paths, rails and steps, developing a play area and play trail, upgrading toilet facilities, improving signage, and providing a dedicated tea room/coffee area, as well as improving accessibility from the town and linking in with the Boyne Valley to Lakelands County Greenway. It also aims to conserve and restore the walled garden in Dun na Rí.

Other elements of the plan include protecting the natural and built heritage of the park, an ecology study, woodland regeneration, habitat protection and a flooding survey. The masterplan is being prepared in close cooperation with Coillte and will be used to inform policy and investment decisions for the park, bringing forward projects suitable for funding and delivery. The process, which is being funded by the LEADER programme, has been led by landscape architects from The Paul Hogarth Company and builds upon the findings of an initial public consultation exercise held in the autumn of 2021.

Welcoming the consultation process, Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Councillor Clifford Kelly said “I know Dun an Rí has a special place in the hearts of people, not just in Kingscourt but across the county and far beyond. I urge everyone to get involved in this important consultation and to contribute their knowledge, ideas and passion to help make this the best possible plan for the future of the park.”

James Hennessey, Director of The Paul Hogarth Company explained, “Dun an Rí Forest Park is a wonderful place right on the doorstep of Kingscourt. Through this important exercise we are able to shape a road map for its future improvement, protecting its underlying qualities and making it a more attractive and sustainable destination for the enjoyment of all.”

A link to the survey is available on www.cavancpco.ie and the closing date for feedback is 14th June.