SOUTH Down MLA Chris Hazzard has raised the on-going blockage of the popular Slievenaslat walking trail in Castlewellan Forest Park with the Agriculture & Rural Development Minister Michelle O’Neill.
The South Down MLA said: “Following the spring snow storm of last year large parts of the Slievenaslat trail in the Forest Park were cut off as fallen trees and debris had rendered significant sections of the trail impassable.
“For some months now Forest Service have been working to clear the trail and have made considerable progress, however the recent storm conditions have unfortunately caused further damage. I have now asked Minister O’Neill if her Department officials are confident that the trail can be cleared in time for the increased footfall in the New Year.”
Mr Hazzard added: “Given the huge success of the recently opened Mountain Bike Trails in Castlewellan and the increased demand in outdoor activities in the Park, it would be unfortunate if large sections of the popular Slievenaslat trail remained impassable for the foreseeable future. With this in mind I have asked the Minister to make sure all resources and support is made available to the Forest Service so all trails in the Park may be cleared as a matter of urgency.”
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