Lough Navar Forest – Have Your Say
14th May 2020
Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland has been appointed by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to prepare a Development Plan for Lough Navar Forest.
A key element of the project is to undertake public consultation on the proposals for future development of Lough Navar Forest as a space for outdoor recreation. The initial step is to encourage a response to a quick online survey.
Already offering walks and a scenic drive to the Magho Cliffs viewpoint, the forest has been identified as an area with potential for enhanced recreational activities, from walking and cycling to family-friendly facilities and events.
Speaking about the consultation, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Siobhan Currie said, “The Fermanagh Lakelands region is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant waterways and excellent outdoor attractions, and has an established reputation for attracting tourists in huge numbers as well as families and outdoor enthusiasts.”
Lough Navar Forest has already been identified as a key visitor attraction within the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark and has enormous potential for further sympathetic development. The consultation process provides the local community with an opportunity to help shape any future development of the area before options are developed and sources of funding identified.
Speaking about the consultation Outdoor Recreation NI’s, Sarah Steer, said:
“As an organisation we have a wealth of experience in managing and developing outdoor recreation and without question, Lough Navar Forest holds incredible tourism potential. However, we believe passionately that any new developments must also meet the needs of the local community. This is the time for people to share their opinions with us and so we would encourage members of the local community to complete the survey”.
Members of the public are initially invited to express their views on the future development by taking part in an online survey.
A public consultation session to further explore ideas with the local community and interested individuals will be scheduled later in the year, taking cognisance of COVID-19 government guidance on public gatherings.
For more information and to register to attend the future consultation meeting, contact Sarah Steer, Outdoor Recreation NI. s.steer@out-scape.com.