A potential location for Northern Ireland's first-ever Treetop Walk has been identified in County Down.

Castlewellan Forest Park is currently being considered to create a sustainable visitor experience that provides close-to-nature recreation and showcases the natural beauty of the area while providing an adventurous and educational attraction for both residents and visitors.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in partnership with EAK Ireland, part of the EAK group, a leader in creating nature-based experiences, and in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Forest Service, has agreed to explore the feasibility of the project.

Together, the partners are to begin conducting the necessary assessments to ensure that the project aligns and delivers on sustainable tourism, supporting the local economy and benefitting the local community.

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As part of the project development, an assessment on the potential impact of the project on traffic and the existing road network will be required, with mitigation measures developed for the area. Early engagement with residents and businesses will also be a key focus during the development of the proposed attraction.

The next steps in the project will be to establish a business case prior to further consideration by the council.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne, said: "Castlewellan Forest Park is one of our district's most cherished assets, and this exciting proposal has the potential to elevate it to an iconic landmark visitor attraction for Northern Ireland.

"By working together, we hope to create an innovative, nature-based attraction that will inspire visitors while preserving the park's natural beauty for generations to come."

Tom McArdle, EAK Ireland Treetop Walks added: "We have visited many possible new sites across the country and Castlewellan is our preferred venue.

"The success of our Treetop Walk Avondale in County Wicklow shows the potential for this type of tourism attraction, and we believe it would bring many benefits to the local area and surrounding region.

"We look forward to working alongside Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and other stakeholders to bring this world class amenity to fruition."