Minutes:
Mr Paul Jordan & Mr Conor English from Coillte joined the meeting accompanied by Ms Tracey Ferguson, Project Development Office, Economic Development.
Mr Paul Jordan updated the members on the recent study on Glenfarne woods which was undertaken as a piece of research arising from a working group that was established between Coillte and Leitrim County Council. Mr Jordan advised that recreation is a key part of their planning process.
He advised that a key part of the project was local consultation and the involvement and input of local stakeholders is key to the success of the project. He added that there was a very high level of engagement from local people, even when these meeting had to be facilitated online due to Covid 19 restrictions.
He advised the report comprises of a number of recreation options which would be suitable projects in Glenfarne woods. When a funding opportunity is available the appropriate option can be chosen to be put forward for funding with the background research already completed.
Ms Tracey Ferguson gave a presentation on the study completed on Glenfarne Wood, she outlined the objectives, the stake holders and community consultation, the key findings and themes. The presentation appears under minute Item No 102 in the Minute Book.
Ms Ferguson advised that an application has been submitted for ORIS measure one funding. She added that Coillte and Leitrim County Council have recognised the support of the local community in considering the future of Glenfarne wood. Due to Covid-19 restrictions this report will be launched online in the first week of November.
Cllr Sean McDermott welcomed the report and the potential that could be unlocked for Glenfarne Woods. He advised that this is a great piece of work and would like to see plans be implemented. He added that every opportunity should be availed of in relation to funding streams.
Cllr Justin Warnock enquired what size is the forest and if there will be clear felling taking place as this could hinder tourism. He added that he supports the development of Glenfarne woods and other such developments for Leitrim.
Cllr Felim Gurn supported the development and advised this would be a great resource for North Leitrim. He added it is evident that a lot of work has gone into this report and hoped it would come to fruition.
Cllr Padraig Fallon advised it is a very ambitious programme and is something that be developed over a period of time. It will complement the existing attractions in the region and could lead to further being developed.
Cllr Frank Dolan supported the comments of the members.
Cllr Mary Bohan paid tribute to Coillte and the staff in Leitrim County Council that participate in the development of this report. She advised that people need such resources for their mental health, particularly in such difficult times. She added that if these projects came to fruition that it has the potential to bring a lot of visitors to the region.
Mr Paul Jordan advised the forest if over 200 hectares and they will look at zoning the areas. Resulting from this zoning there may be different walks or sensory trails installed. There will be different management options used in the forest based on the outcome of the zoning exercise.