Diamond Jubilee Wood in Whitehead has officially been named a Local Nature Reserve, six years since it got transformed from a open field to a woodland.

The woodland was opened as a nature reserve to guests on Friday, 05 October.

Speaking at the event, Councillor Lindsay Millar, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, said: "In 2012 more than 1,000 children and adults helped transform what was an open field into a beautiful new woodland. 

"The site now contains over 60,000 trees, including a community orchard, paths, ponds, wildflower meadows, picnic area, outdoor gym and a sculpture designed by a local artist and school children.

"Diamond Jubilee Wood was officially opened on Saturday 23 June 2012 by Mrs Joan Christie, CVO, OBE, Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for County Antrim.

-- Advertisement --

"Sixty Diamond Jubilee Woods, each at least 60 acres, were planted throughout the UK to symbolise 60 years of the Queen's reign. Whitehead Diamond Jubilee Wood is one of these flagship woods and is the only Diamond Jubilee Wood in Northern Ireland.

"The site is home to the Biodiversity Summer School each summer, Woollen Woods each spring and a range of environmental activities throughout the year, including hedge laying, tree planting and wildlife walks.

"The site is home to a wide range of wildlife, including birds and bats, and is well used by local people and visitors. It makes an important contribution not just to nature but to local health and wellbeing initiatives.

"This site demonstrates Mid and East Antrim Borough Council's commitment to conserving and enhancing biodiversity throughout the borough and our commitment to protecting urban green space for the community."

Dr Hilary Kirkpatrick, Chair of the Council for Nature Conservation and the Countryside (CNCC), added: "Local Nature Reserves provide accessible nature on a community's doorsteps, and this site is a great example of this.

"What you have achieved here in Whitehead is absolutely wonderful, from the many people who helped to plant the woodland, continue to manage the woodland and enjoy the woodland all year long.

"Well done to you all. Diamond Jubilee Wood will be standing tall for your great-grandchildren to enjoy."

(CM)