merrion street

Shane McEntee, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with responsibility for forestry, today formally opened enhanced recreational facilities at Oakpark Forest Park in Carlow.

Opening the new facilities, the development of which had received support under the NeighbourWood Scheme operated by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Minister of State added that “This Scheme supports the development of ‘close-to-home’ woodland amenities for local people, designed and managed through partnerships involving local communities and local authorities”. He praised all those involved, including Carlow County Council, Carlow Delta Centre, the County Carlow Sports Partnership and Emerald Forestry, for their efforts in developing the project and bringing it to completion.

The project included silviculture enhancement and the installation of appropriate recreational facilities, including the provision of a central universally accessible playground, which is the first of its kind in Ireland.

Noting that the new works added to the existing recreational facilities, when congratulating all those involved in the project, Minister of State commented that they “have succeeded in creating a first class woodland amenity that their community can visit and enjoy for decades to come. These woodland amenities can also bring tourism benefits to the town, attracting visitors from outside the area. Last but not least, they provide an environmental benefit and a valuable habitat space, right on your doorstep, that everyone can appreciate and enjoy”