Removal of Invasive Woodland Species Commences at Delamont Country Park

Working in partnership with the Woodland Trust, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has commenced work to remove invasive woodland species from the woodland at Delamont Country Park.

A survey carried out by the Woodland Trust in 2021 produced a Woodland Restortion Management Plan for Delamont and showed that three separate woodland compartments totalling c.7.71ha are threatened by invasive woodland species, such as Rhododendron and Cherry Laurel.  These invasives species are severely inhibiting the natural growth and regeneration of native trees, negatively impacting the structural and species diversity within the understory of the Park’s woodland.

Contractors appointed by the Woodland Trust on behalf of the Council, are removing these invasive species in an attempt to restore the woodland ecosystem. They will be cut at ground level, extracted and the stumps treated with an approved herbicide. These drastic methods are the only way to successfully remove these tough plants and prevent regrowth.  And by removing the invasive species, the native woodland plants such as bluebells and native tree species will be allowed to thrive with better exposure to the light. The treated areas of woodland in Delamont will soon regenerate naturally.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said, “The Council completed a Master plan for Delamont Country Park in 2019, envisaging it as a ‘Window on to Strangford Lough’.  Key priorities include a visitor centre as a focal point and a viewpoint, which would maximise the Park’s location with its’ panoramic views over the Mournes and Strangford Lough.

“I am delighted to hear that the Woodland Restoration Management Plan is now being delivered in Delamont. This will add to the overall Masterplan the Council has envisaged for the Park.  Improving the woodland will benefit both visitor and biodiversity alike and I very much look forward to visiting a new and improved Delamont Country Park in the future as these works progress.”

Work has already commenced, and the Park will remain open to the public while it is being carried out. Please follow any signs on site and avoid paths and areas which are closed off where the contractor is working.