€2.7 million investment in Co. Leitrim wood

Coillte, in partnership with Leitrim County Council, have announced the commencement of development works at Glenfarne Wood.

Supported by €2.5m in funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the overall investment for the first phase of this development is €2.7m. This is a significant recreation and tourism project that will enhance one of Leitrim's most distinctive woodlands, which has received planning approval for two phases.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary T.D attended the official opening of the project yesterday (Thursday).

The project forms part of a long-term vision to strengthen Glenfarne Wood’s role as a valued local amenity and enhance its appeal as a high-quality, sustainable visitor destination for Leitrim and the wider northwest region.

Phase one will include a new trailhead building, providing a central arrival and information point and facilities to support sheltered events and community activities, alongside expanded parking, a new multi-access playground, and an inclusive sensory walking trail connecting to the lakefront.

The new facilities are designed to improve accessibility and create more opportunities for families, schools, community groups and visitors to enjoy Glenfarne Wood.

The Minister marked the start of the development works at Glenfarne Wood at a sod turning event attended by representatives of Coillte, Leitrim County Council, P.J. Treacy & Sons Ltd, local representatives and community groups.

The start of the project follows extensive planning and collaboration between Coillte, Leitrim County Council and local stakeholders. The associated works for the first phase of development is expected to support more than 20 jobs, while increased visitor numbers and tourism spend are expected to deliver longer-term economic benefits for Glenfarne and the wider region.

“The Glenfarne Wood enhancement project is hugely positive for Leitrim and the surrounding area, and I’m delighted that the work is getting underway,” Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary T.D stated.

“Our forests are a wonderful amenity for local communities and visitors, providing opportunities for people to get outdoors, enjoy nature and support local tourism.

“It is great to see Coillte and Leitrim County Council working together to enhance Glenfarne Wood. This investment will greatly improve the visitor experience while supporting tourism and delivering wider economic benefits for Glenfarne, Leitrim and the north-west region,” the Minister added.

“This project will enhance a valued recreation amenity that already means a great deal to local people in Leitrim, while creating new opportunities for recreation, wellbeing and sustainable tourism in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands,” Mark Carlin, Managing Director, Coillte Forest said.

“The enhancement of Glenfarne Wood is a great example of Coillte’s strategy in action and of the multiple benefits our forests provide for people and communities.

“By investing in high-quality recreation, we are supporting tourism, encouraging more people to enjoy the outdoors and contributing to community wellbeing.

“Working in partnership with Leitrim County Council, and with support from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, we are making Glenfarne Wood more accessible, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone,” he added.

Joseph Gilhooly, Chief Executive, Leitrim County Council also welcomed the project.

“Today marks the start of a very exciting chapter for Glenfarne Demense and North Leitrim. The project, once complete, will be transformative for tourism and outdoor recreation in Co. Leitrim and I’ve no doubt this amenity will become a leading tourist attraction in the area.

“With a growing interest in spending time outdoors, this development will encourage visitors from Leitrim and surrounding counties to explore the beautiful surroundings of Glenfarne and North Leitrim. Leitrim County Council greatly appreciates the work and commitment of Coillte to Leitrim and to delivering this investment for the County and region,” he stated.

“We are very grateful for the support from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht which has let us commence with Phase One of the project under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, ” the CEO added.

Sean McDermott, Glenfarne Community Development Trust Ltd. said that “this has always been a special place for local people.” “We are absolutely delighted to see this investment coming to Glenfarne. These new facilities will make it even more accessible and enjoyable for families, schools, community groups and visitors alike. The woods are at the heart of our community, and this development will also help to position Glenfarne as a gateway destination within Ireland's Hidden Heartlands,” he stated.

Coillte and Leitrim County Council have also announced the appointment of P.J. Treacy & Sons Ltd, to deliver the works, following a competitive tender process. Based in Enniskillen, P.J. Treacy & Sons Ltd is a family run business employing approximately 75 people. Phase One is expected to take approximately 12 months.

"We are pleased to be delivering this important project on behalf of Coillte and Leitrim County Council,” Martin Treacy, Managing Director of P.J. Treacy & Sons stated.

“The development will create high quality recreation infrastructure while respecting the unique natural character of Glenfarne Wood. We look forward to working closely with all project partners and the local community throughout the construction phase," he added.