New Visitor Experience For Hillsborough Forest
February 9, 2017
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has announced the completion of its Concept Plan for future developments at Hillsborough Forest.
This multi-million pound project can now progress following a number of months of engagement by the Council and its appointed consultants with local communities and statutory agencies, to discuss improving the visitor experience at this local forest on the outskirts of Hillsborough village.
Following the completion of the consultations, a Concept Plan was designed to incorporate the thoughts and ideas of the local communities. Through partnership working with the local Health Trust, the opportunity to enhance walking trails and other activity areas in the forest, can help to promote health and wellbeing.
Councillor Uel Mackin, Chairman of the Council’s Development Committee, speaking about the plans, said: “The Council is delighted with the level of engagement it received on its proposals from residents, local community groups, regular users of the Forest and statutory agencies. I would like to pay particular thanks to the Hillsborough Steering and Communications Group for its role in leading the concept design stage.
“As a progressive council we are committed to community planning and ensuring that our area is appealing to both residents and visitors alike. This planned development represents a significant investment in this charming village. A key aim of the plan is to provide a world class, innovative, natural recreational area, making best use and access to the Forest in its entirety and build on this already very popular family and visitor destination.
“The first phase shall include an exciting new Visitor & Education Centre, additional car parking, play areas, public art trails, interpretive signage and pathway improvements. These plans will be further scrutinised at the next stage of development following a public tender to secure the necessary architectural services, and more consultations,” concluded Councillor Mackin.
Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chief Executive for Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council added: “This project is a prime example of successful community engagement to secure the development of a local area to meet the needs of the local residents, community groups and businesses. The Council in partnership with statutory bodies such as the Forest Service and the South Eastern Health Trust will work together to revitalise the Forest Park.
“This significant development is part of the Council’s overall Hillsborough Tourism Masterplan, which supports the development of Hillsborough as a key visitor destination through the delivery of a number of tourism focused development initiatives to enhance the profile of Hillsborough, both regionally and further afield.
“It is also envisaged that this will be a very welcome and complimentary boost to the area in support of a £16million investment announced by Historic Royal Palaces in respect to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens with a projected uplift of 200,000 visitors by 2019.’
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council looks forward to the Concept Plan being further developed and the delivery of the project providing an all new and exciting experience for Hillsborough Forest visitors and locals alike.