Two forests in Mid Ulster are set to undergo a programme of improvements to develop more outdoor recreation opportunities.

Forming part of Mid Ulster District Council's capital programme, work has begun on Derrynoid Forest, which lies on the outskirts of Draperstown. Work will also start later in the year on Drumcairne, which is situated just outside Stewartstown.

The Council is working alongside Forest Service NI on the £560,000 project, funded under the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Programme and by Mid Ulster District Council. It is due for completion by the end of March 2023.


Welcoming the beginning of work, Mid Ulster District Council's Chair, Councillor Córa Corry said: "Council is committed to offering outdoor recreational opportunities and experiences to our local community, which are free to access and have health, wellbeing, and wider community benefits. The much-needed work that has started today at Derrynoid, and that which will start shortly in Drumcairne, will increase access to these underutilised forest sites, provide safer and more pleasant trails, and allow for families to visit, taking a picnic to have a great day out, encouraging future generations to engage with the natural environment."

-- Advertisement --

DAERA's Director of Rural Affairs Teresa O'Neill commented: "Getting outside and enjoying the natural environment is really important for people's health and wellbeing. Forest Parks are great places for people to do this. The improved facilities in Derrynoid and Drumcairne will be a great benefit for the rural communities and visitors and represent a significant investment by DAERA in the local area.


"The projects at Derrynoid and Drumcairne are further examples of how collaboration and developing partnerships between DAERA and local councils can work really well on the ground and where people can see real and tangible benefits."

The proposals to develop Derrynoid and Drumcairne include increased provision at the current car park within the site, including the addition of accessible car parking spaces. Trail Path upgrades will include resurfacing and drainage on existing walking trails.


New bench seating, bike racks and picnic tables including accessible provision will be installed, just in time for the summer season. Visitors will also be helped find their way around the trails and find out about the history of the site through new signage provision to include way-marking, signage, and interpretation.


Both Derrynoid and Drumcairne Forests will be closed for public access for the duration of the works, which are anticipated to take a total of 10-12 weeks.