Under the Neighbourwood Scheme Coillte would help us to plan and develop the walk including a native species arboretum showcasing Irelands 26 native tree species; accessible, well developed footpaths with steps where necessary; interpretation signage along the walking routes and public amenity areas with picnic furniture. Native tree species will also feature prominently alongside the main walking routes.
During the discussions Mr O'Rourke acknowledged that the Carrigfadda site was idealy suited to amenity development, and only of negligible economic value to Coillte as a forestry plantation. He agreed that it was in Coilltes best interests to develop such areas in collaboration with the local community, providing the community with a valuable environmental heritage resource without a significant impact to Coillte's forestry operations."The Neighbourwood Scheme sounds like exactly what we need," said Calvin Jones, PRO with RCAG. "We're very keen to work with Coillte on this project, and to bring it to fruition as soon as possible. However, our own research indicates that the scheme is funded under the National Development Plan, which comes to a close at the end of this year. We're currently looking for clarification from Coillte on that."
All being well RCAG plans to submit a proposal to Coillte under the scheme in the next two weeks and to move things forward as quickly as possible thereafter.
Watch this site and local press for more details.