This new status will ensure that Daisy Hill Wood remains a protected site and will continue to make an important contribution to local biodiversity, as well as being a great place for people to visit.
Danielle Cookson, Ulster Wildlife Trust Biodiversity Officer at the council, said: “Daisy Hill Wood is the most fantastic natural resource - for both people and wildlife - and we are absolutely delighted to see so many people here today getting back to nature!”
Over 150 people joined in with the many activities on the day, including tree planting, den building and arts and crafts, while Courtneys in Newry served up hot soup and rolls to keep everyone warm.
Mayor John Feehan planted an oak tree to commemorate the occasion. He said: “Designating Daisy Hill Wood as a Local Nature Reserve demonstrates how committed Newry and Mourne District Council is to working towards conserving local wildlife for the people of Newry”.
Daisy Hill Wood is open to the public all year round and offers woodland walks and tranquility, with the promise of brilliant views over the city. Visitors to this historic site can enjoy mature oak, ash and beech in the banks and hedges, while in the springtime, primroses and bluebells provide a colourful greeting.The woodland is also home to many precious wild inhabitants, including bats, foxes and hedgehogs, while birds include long-eared owls.
The Ulster Wildlife Trust and Newry and Mourne District Council are working in partnership to enhance biodiversity within the Newry area. To find out more about this click here
2 February 2010
