Procurement Process Commences for Castlewellan Forest Park

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has commenced the procurement process to appoint a contractor responsible for undertaking the construction and restoration of the natural and built heritage of Castlewellan Forest Park.

 ‘Re-Rooting our past in the Future: Castlewellan Historic Demesne’ project is part funded by the Council and National Lottery Heritage Fund. The project aims to connect people with the architectural and natural heritage within Castlewellan Forest Park, as well as restoring and preserving its unique biodiversity. This includes the restoration of the Arboretum, which sits at the heart of the walled Annesley Garden and is home to one of the most significant collection of trees and shrubs in Ireland.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage expressed his enthusiasm for the project saying, “The procurement process marks a significant milestone in the implementation of this project, which aligns with the Council’s commitment to ensuring that greenspaces and architectural heritage within our district are enhanced and protected for future generations to enjoy.”

The project will also sensitively develop the Grange into a visitor core, with the creation of a welcome centre, community space and café facilities. The courtyards will be transformed into a vibrant visitor hub and a centre for community use with interpretation, activities, events, environmental education and skills development. While the landscape will be conserved and managed sympathetically, ensuring the protection of its plant collection and vital biodiversity. 

The Arboretum and Annesley Garden lie at the heart of Castlewellan Forest Park and the project will re-establish the historical nature of the planting in the Arboretum, creating a rhododendron walk, restoring historical architectural features, providing interpretation and seating.

The funding for ‘Re-Rooting our past in the Future: Castlewellan Historic Demesne’ has been made possible by National Lottery players who raise £30 million every week for good causes in the UK. 

National Lottery Heritage Fund, Northern Ireland Director, Dr Paul Mullan said, “Through our conversations with National Lottery players, we know that nature is incredibly important to them, and the funding for this project means that they can play their part in preserving the natural environment and built heritage at Castlewellan Demesne.

“We are incredibly proud to be playing a role in ensuring this natural heritage is safeguarded for generations to come, but also that the new facilities will give people the chance to connect with each other, with nature and with wildlife on their doorsteps.”