Greens urge local authorities to promote woodlands projects!

According to Green Party councillor, Deirdre de Burca, the towns and villages of Wicklow are blessed with many wooded areas, but these are coming under increasing pressure from development and misuse. She is calling on the local authorities in Bray, Arklow and Wicklow to consider applying for funding under the "Neighbourwood Scheme" recently launched by the Forest Service.

The "Neighbourwoods Scheme" focuses on projects that maximise the potential for public access and recreation, demonstrate a commitment to long-term management, include a high degree of local participation and have a high broadleaf content.

"This scheme aims to enhance the planting and management of trees and woodlands around urban areas" says councillor de Burca. "It also encourages the active involvement of community groups in the management of local woodlands. This scheme provides funding for the establishment of new Neighbourwoods, the improvement of existing Neighbourwoods and the installation of recreation facilities into new or existing Neighbourwoods".

Given the increasing urbanisation of parts of the county, Councillor de Burca believes that the local authorities have a responsibility to enhance the existing woodlands and to plant up adjoining areas for recreation and biodiversity. "I will be putting down a motion at the next meeting of Wicklow County Council urging that a funding be applied for from the Forest Service under the Neighbourwoods Scheme" she says.

For further information please contact Deirdre de Burca on 086 8061450 or email deburca@wicklowgreens.org.