Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has announced that construction and restoration works have commenced at Castlewellan Forest Park.

Northern Ireland construction firm, OB Construction has been appointed as the main contractor to carry out the work, which will be split over multiple areas within the worldclass Arboretum and the Grange courtyard.

Funding of £2.69 million for the project, 'Re-Rooting our past in the Future: Castlewellan Historic Demesne' has been received from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The financial support will revitalise and conserve the cultural and natural heritage of the park for present and future generations.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte said: "The Council's vision to establish Castlewellan Forest Park as a heritage-led destination, has taken a step closer with the appointment of OB Construction as the main contractor. The Council’s intention is to revive, commemorate and interpret both the natural and built heritage of the historic demesne."

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Chairperson Cllr Harte continued: "At the heart of the project are people, heritage and community. Delivery of this project will ensure the protection of the Park’s rich legacy for the enjoyment of generations to come. Whilst construction and restoration are ongoing, there will be a varied programme of activities, events, environmental education and skills development delivered by the Council’s Education and Biodiversity Officer, Volunteer Coordinator and Gardening team. The programme of activities will provide opportunities for the wider community to learn about the importance of heritage, biodiversity and conservation, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship and creating an inviting park accessible to all."

Chair of The National Lottery Heritage Fund in Northern Ireland, Mukesh Sharma, stated: "Heritage has a unique role in bringing people together where they live, work and visit. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, this project will deliver a high quality, heritage destination that will enhance the wellbeing of surrounding communities and increase tourism by preserving the natural environment and built heritage at Castlewellan Historic Demesne.

"Over the next ten years, through our Heritage 2033 strategy, the Heritage Fund is committed to supporting landscape projects, both rural and urban, that help habits and species thrive, reduce and mitigate the impacts of climate change while connecting people to our unique natural heritage."

The project aims to protect the landscape, including its plant collection and biodiversity. Castlewellan Forest Park's core features are the National Arboretum and Annesley Garden. Restoration efforts will focus on the Arboretum's historical planting. Additionally, The Grange will become a vibrant visitor hub with a welcome center, community space, café, and open event area.