The development of a new masterplan for the future Silent Valley Mountain Park is making significant progress.

Members of the public have been invited to share their views on the masterplan during a series of consultation events scheduled during the month of May. This will help develop ideas and concepts around the key themes of Inclusivity, Heritage Conservation, Education, Visitor & Recreation Experience and Partnership & Collaboration.

Eoin Gilmore, Senior Capital Project Manager, NI Water explained: "Silent Valley is a stunning site open for visitors to explore and enjoy, while also operating as a key strategic reservoir providing drinking water for a large part of County Down and the Greater Belfast Area. 

"NI Water is keen to enhance the existing visitor experience, so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the Valley, while also preserving the unique tranquillity the site offers. We want to hear what the local community and indeed the wider NI public would like to see at this site to make it a truly inclusive attraction for all."

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Speaking on the importance of stakeholders in the consultation process, Martin Carey, Mourne Heritage Trust, added: "Initial engagement with a variety of stakeholders identified the opportunity for Silent Valley to become, 'A Living Valley, Shared By All'. The aim is to create an enhanced outdoor space that will provide residents and visitors with a safe and welcoming environment to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The input from local communities, organisations and individuals into this initial engagement process is vital in shaping the Masterplan to reflect the needs of current and future visitors to the Valley. We would encourage everyone to take the time to fill in the survey or call into one of the drop-in sessions and chat with the team."

The upcoming consultation events are as follows:

• Monday 22 May – Bracken Centre, Kilkeel (3pm – 8pm)

• Tuesday 23 May – Annalong Community Centre (3pm – 8pm)

• Wednesday 24 May – Mourne Lodge, Attical (3pm – 8pm)

• Thursday 25 May – Moneydarragh Hub, Annalong (3pm – 8pm)

• Tuesday 30 May – Kilkeel Development Association, Kilkeel (4pm – 8pm).

An online survey is also available here.

The Masterplan is expected to be available in October this year to coincide with the celebration event, marking 100 years since the first sod cutting of the Silent Valley dam construction works.