Mourne Outdoor Recreation Action Plan

Transcription

1 Mourne Outdoor Recreation Action Plan Prepared by Outdoor Recreation NI on behalf of Sport NI and in partnership with the Mourne Outdoor Recreation Forum October 2014

2 CONTENTS TABLE OF FIGURES... 5 FOREWORD INTRODUCTION The Need for this Plan Purpose of Plan Scope Activities Covered METHODOLOGY INTRODUCTION National Context NI wide Local Context The Mournes Destination Other Factors to Consider NATURAL AND BUILT HERITAGE Natural Heritage Built Heritage ACCESS LAND OWNERSHIP CURRENT PROVISION Land-Based Activities Adventure Racing Archery Blokarting Boot Camps Bushcraft Clay Pigeon Shooting Cycling (On and Off Road Cycling) Fell running High Ropes /Ziplines Hill Walking Horse Riding Kite Buggying Mountain Biking Mountain Boarding Orienteering Page 2 of 93

3 Paintballing Rock Climbing Segway Walking Zorbing Water-based Activities Angling Boat Cruising Bouldering Canoeing/Kayaking/Slalom Caving Coasteering Diving Hovercrafting Rowing Sailing Stand-Up Paddleboarding Surfing Waterskiing/Wakeboarding Windsurfing Air-based Activities Aero-modelling Gliding Hang Gliding/Paragliding Micro-light Flying Sky Diving/ Parachuting Outdoor Education Centres Activity Providers Events Summary CONSULTATION RESULTS SWOT ANALYSIS ISSUES AND BARRIERS FUTURE DEVELOPMENT The BIG Issues Page 3 of 93

4 11.2. The Bottom Up Approach High Mournes Development Low Mournes Development ACTION PLAN CONCLUSIONS OUTDOOR RECREATION MAPS BIBLIOGRAPHY APPENDIX Terms of Reference Consultation Questionnaire Consultation Poster Project Consultees Public Consultation Event Attendees Natural and Built Heritage PRoW and Permissive Paths ACRONYMS DEFINITION OF TERMS Page 4 of 93

5 TABLE OF FIGURES Fig. 1 Project Scope Fig. 2 Natural Heritage Fig. 3 Built Heritage Fig. 4 Public Rights of Way and Permissive Paths Fig. 5 Access Points Fig. 6 Land Ownership Fig. 7 Mourne Outdoor Recreation Action Plan Fig. 8 Activity Providers Fig. 9 Current Provision - Angling Fig. 10 Current Provision - Canoeing Fig. 11 Current Provision - Climbing Fig. 12 Current Provision - Cycling Fig. 13 Current Provision - Mountain Biking Fig. 14 Current Provision - Orienteering Fig. 15 Current Provision - All Air Activities Fig. 16 Future Development - Site Based Fig. 17 Future Development - Activity Based Table 1 Outdoor Recreation Activities Covered... 9 Table 2 Consultee Categories and Consultation Methods Employed Table 3 Mountain Bike Trails - Usage Table 4 Formal Walking Sites Table 5 Informal Walking Sites Table 6 Walking Sites - Usage (Source: Mourne Heritage Trust) Table Events Calendar (Source: Mourne Heritage Trust) Table 8 SWOT Analysis Page 5 of 93

6 FOREWORD Please note that this report is not an exhaustive list of all current outdoor recreation within the Mourne and Slieve Croob AONB region. The results recorded are based on data gathered through existing studies and information collected through desk research and consultation. Although every endeavour has been taken to ensure accuracy in mapping, some trails, sites, public land and activities may appear under-represented due to a lack of feedback or limited response. Page 6 of 93

7 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1. The Need for this Plan Over the last 30 years a number of recreation and access-related strategies have been produced for the Mournes including: - Greer & Murray (1988) Recreation Strategy for the Mourne AONB - Countryside Consultancy ( ) Mourne Countryside Recreation Strategy - Outdoor Recreation NI (2007) Mourne AONB Access Study - Dafydd Davis (2012) The Mournes and Slieve Croob Strategic Path Review In the last 10 years the provision and management of outdoor recreation in the Mournes area has significantly changed rendering some of these plans out-of-date. Despite this the Mournes area has seen a notable investment in activity products which are marketable for tourism, the prime examples being the Mourne Mountain Bike Trails ; several sites have been developed under the auspices of the Mourne Mountains destination branding scheme and the Mourne Forests are set to become key tourist attractions in the future. Recognising this gap, the Outdoor Recreation Action Plan for Northern Ireland Our Great Outdoors (2014) includes the recommendation; to map current hubs for outdoor recreation and identify geographical gaps in provision...and to develop a framework for creating recreational master plans for these hubs to ensure appropriate infrastructure and management Purpose of Plan Despite advancement in the Mournes tourism status; it is one of NITB s nine signature, world class destinations; there is no one document which provides an up-to date picture of current recreation provision or outlines what the priorities for future development might be. The intended purpose of this Plan is to address this gap and produce an Action Plan which sets out a framework for the development of outdoor recreation across the Mournes area. The Plan will specifically highlight priorities for future development and suggest recommendations for projects which are recreation related. Providing opportunities for increased participation is one of Sport NI s key priorities 2. This study is intended to make proposals for future development which contribute to increasing the provision and opportunities for local people and visitors to engage in physical recreation. However this should not be at the expense of the natural environmental. Protection of the natural environment remains paramount thus any recommendations will take account of the total impact on the Mournes ecosystem and the services it provides. The Plan will act as a guide and as a platform for advocating future development to be used by Mourne Outdoor Recreation Forum, Sport NI and other stakeholders with a mutual interest in outdoor recreation in the Mournes. Identifying the need for projects through this Plan may also help to secure financial support in the future. 1 Action E1 2 Sport NI, Sport Matters: The Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation Page 7 of 93

8 1.3. Aim & Objectives The aim of this Plan is: To prepare a framework for the sustainable development, management and promotion of future outdoor recreation facilities and opportunities within the Mournes and Slieve Croob AONB region, accommodating both the needs of the local community and those visiting the area The broad objectives of this Plan Strategy are to 3 : detail and GIS map the nature and extent of current outdoor recreation provision in the Mournes identify the future opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Mournes produce a 5-10 year Action Plan outlining delivery partners 1.4. Scope The study area is defined as the Mourne and Slieve Croob AONB area which measures approximately 57,965 hectares 4. The study area incorporates not just the Mourne Mountains but also the south east coastline from Dundrum to Warrenpoint incorporating Carlingford Lough, numerous rivers including the Bann, Shimna and Lagan, several inland lakes and reservoirs including Spelga and Silent Valley, forests and forest parks including Castlewellan, Tollymore, Donard, Rostrevor and Slieve Gullion and towns such as Hilltown, Warrenpoint, Newry, Kilkeel, Annalong, Dundrum, Newcastle, Forkhill, Jonesborough and Finnis. The project area falls within three local council areas Newry and Mourne District Council (c. 70%) Down District Council (c.20%) and Banbridge District Council (c.10%). Under the Review of Public Administration (RPA) in 2015 Newry and Mourne and Down District Council will combine to form one administrative body, i.e. Newry, Mourne and Down Council with the inclusion of Slieve Croob which currently falls within Banbridge District Council area. 3 The full Terms of Reference for this Project are available in Appendix Source: NIEA Natural Designations GIS database Page 8 of 93

9 1.5. Activities Covered 39 outdoor recreation activities 5 are covered by this study, as shown in Table 1. These activities are all dependant on sustainable access to the natural environment. Golf, hunting and motorised sports are not included. ACTIVITIES COVERED LAND WATER AIR Adventure Racing Angling Aero-Modelling Archery Boat Cruising Gliding Blokarting Bouldering Hang Gliding/Paragliding Boot Camps Canoeing (including Kayaking and Slalom) Micro-Light Flying Bush Craft Caving Sky Diving/Parachuting Clay Pigeon Shooting Cycling (On- and Off- Road) Fell Running High Ropes/Ziplines Hill Walking Horse Riding Kite Buggying Mountain Biking Mountain Boarding Orienteering Paintballing Rock Climbing Segway Walking Zorbing Coasteering Diving Hovercrafting Rowing Sailing Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Surfing Waterskiing/Wakeboarding Windsurfing Table 1 Outdoor Recreation Activities Covered 5 These activities were chosen because they are covered under Outdoor Recreation NI s remit and are listed on OutdoorNI.com Page 9 of 93

10 Fig. 1 Project Scope

11 2. METHODOLOGY Data used to produce this Plan was collected, analysed and presented using a three-tiered approach: 1. Use of Existing Information and Data Existing information and data gathered through previous reports such as the 2007 Mourne Access Strategy and 2012 Strategic Path Review was collated. Information about current provision and land ownership was derived in-house records and from the following sources: Existing databases - WalkNI.com, CycleNI.com, Ulster Way, CanoeNI.com, MountainBikeNI.com Research projects - Public Land Mapping Phase 1 and 2, Mourne Forest Scoping Studies 2. Consultation Table 2 shows how consultees were grouped and the consultation method employed for each. Consultee Category Local Council Officers Governing Bodies Public/Statutory Agencies Outdoor Education Centres Activity Providers General public, community groups, local clubs and MORF Consultation Method Face-to-face meeting Invited to public consultations Questionnaire (via ) Telephone or interviews (depending on convenience) Questionnaire (via ) Face-to-face meeting (where relevant) Follow-up phone call to discuss (where relevant) Face-to-face meeting Questionnaire (via ) Follow-up phone call to discuss (where relevant) Public Consultation Table 2 Consultee Categories and Consultation Methods Employed Three public consultation events were organised and widely promoted through the following channels: - Direct s to all of the above groups (database compiled by Outdoor Recreation NI) - Editorials in local newspapers including Newry Reporter

12 - Websites including Outdoor Recreation NI.com, Outdoor NI.com, WalkNI.com and CommunityNI.com - Direct to members via County Down Rural Community Network - Direct s via Council s mailing lists - Direct s to governing bodies for disseminations amongst member organisations - Wide circulation of a poster which advertised the dates, venues and purpose of the events (see Appendix). The event dates and venues were: - Monday 9 th December at Tollymore National Outdoor Centre - Tuesday 10 th December at Hillyard House, Castlewellan - Wednesday 11 th December Warrenpoint Town Hall The consultation events involved a short presentation given by Outdoor Recreation NI followed by workshop style discussions on 2 main topics (i) current outdoor recreation provision and associated issues, and (ii) future opportunities for development. 47 different organisations and groups were represented through the consultation events, the results of which are summarised in Chapter Use of GIS The spatial mapping tool ArcGIS was used to analyse and present the spatial data collected through this study. The following information was mapped: - current provision of all land, air and water-based activities (sites and trails) - land ownership (public and private) - Public Rights of Way (PRoW) and permissive path agreements - environmental designations - future development opportunities Please note that where the extent of the landownership was known, this was shown in polygon format, where the extent of land ownership was not known, this was shown in point format. 6 See Appendix 17.3 for a full list of project and public event consultees Page 12 of 93

13 3. INTRODUCTION This chapter outlines the context of this Outdoor Recreation Plan and how it fits with other relevant plans and strategies written at a national and local level National Context NI wide A Draft Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2020 The first national Strategy to name The Mournes as a signature project was NITB s Strategic Framework for Action As a result of this Strategy a total of 3,647, has been invested in the Mournes through infrastructure development, access, signage, site enhancement, interpretation and public art projects. Specifically the Mournes is benefitting from the creation of the Mourne Coastal Route, exclusive Mourne Destination branding and the Mourne Mountain Bike Trails. The Draft 2020 Tourism Strategy represents how the approach to tourism development has evolved and the Mournes is now referred to as a signature destination rather than a signature project. The Strategy still represents a top down approach to tourism development outlining the over-arching goals of economic growth and sustainability. More importantly it outlines how this should be done, for example through visitor inspired experiences, competitiveness, cross-border partnerships and product differentiation. 3 themes are indentified: 1. People, 2. Product & Places, and 3. Promotion symbolising a 3-pronged approach to tourism development. Under Product & Places and from 2014 onwards the Action Plan contained in this Strategy focuses on the completion of the signature projects and fine-tuning the tourism products on offer through investing in existing product, developing year-round events, improving access especially to the public forest estate and preserving the natural environment, etc. (pp ) How does the Mournes Outdoor Recreation Plan fit with the above? The Mournes continues to be a key priority for DETI and NITB. The Destination is seen as one of the key delivery agents in achieving national tourism targets. But whereas the Draft Tourism Strategy represents a top-down approach this Outdoor Recreation Plan represents a bottom-up approach to enhancing outdoor recreation for visitors and residents alike. None the less this Plan endeavours to make recommendations which are complementary to the goals set out in this National Strategy, and the more area-specific targets that are set out in the Destination Tourism Plan discussed below. Our Great Outdoors - The Outdoor Recreation Action Plan for Northern Ireland, This 7-year plan sets out the aspirations for creating and the actions for achieving a culture of dynamic, sustainable outdoor recreation in Northern Ireland (2013, pp.4). It is intended that this plan will act as the driver for Government, businesses and voluntary organisations to work together to achieve greater accessibility to the outdoors in a sustainable and responsible manner (pp.5). Actions over the next 7 years are categorised according to 6 themes: 1. Structures & Partnerships, 2. Legislation, Policy and Responsibilities, 3. Making the Outdoors More Accessible, 4. Investment of Time, Energy and Resources, 5. Communication, Marketing and Promotion, and 6. Research & Monitoring. How does the Mournes Outdoor Recreation Plan fit with the above? Page 13 of 93

14 The rationale for this Mournes Plan comes from the national Outdoor Recreation Action Plan. Under the aspirations of Theme 3 it is recommended that current outdoor recreation hubs are audited, geographical gaps in provision identified and recommendations made for developing access and opportunities for participation. These are very much intended to be locally based plans with the more strategic, national issues being addressed by the proposed National Outdoor Recreation Forum which will be created as part of this national Plan Local Context The Mournes Destination Destination Mourne Mountains Tourism Management Plan This Destination Action Plan was published by the Destination Forum Group made up of public and private stakeholders including Down District Council, Newry and Mourne District Council and Banbridge District Council. It outlines a collective vision and set of actions to grow tourism at a local level within the signature destination and also fulfil national targets set out in the draft 2020 Tourism Strategy. The Mournes tourism profile is made up of mostly day visitors and visitors within Northern Ireland. 61% of visitors are families while 21% are couples and 30% of all those visiting participate in hiking/walking (pp. 3). The Tourism Plan identifies that the Mourne Mountains strengths are: 1. Walking and Climbing, 2. Scenery, beautiful landscape and views, 3. Mountain biking and cycling, 4. Seaside, beaches and Newcastle, 5. The Mournes and other mountains, 6. Silent Valley and 7. Outdoor recreation and activities (all) (pp. 4). Playing on these strengths, the vision for the Mournes is The Outdoor Playground for the North of Ireland and the objective is to maximise the Mournes potential to attract and encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more. To achieve this vision, key actions are listed under 4 strategic themes: 1. Investment & Infrastructure, 2. Marketing & Promotion, 3. Distinct Visitor Experiences and 4. Building Business Engagement & Sustainability. Under Theme 3, the core signature activities are golf, mountain biking, walking and climbing (pp. 9). How does the Mournes Outdoor Recreation Plan fit with the above? Although this Outdoor Recreation Plan is not a tourism plan it is intended that the recommendations contribute to achieving tourism objectives via a bottom-up approach. This Outdoor Recreation Plan includes proposals for the development of activities, sites and trails at a local level which will enhance the product offering and increase the appeal of the Mourne Mountains destination for day visitors, local communities, families and couples. This Plan fits with the Tourism Plan because it takes into account the priorities and makes recommendations for the development/improvement of core activities of walking and mountain biking as well as other land and water based activities. The Mournes & Slieve Croob Strategic Path Review 2012 Completed by Dafydd Davis in 2012 on behalf of the Mourne Heritage Trust the Strategic Path Review sets out recommendations for the sustainable maintenance, management and development of the recreational path network in the Mournes and Slieve Croob area. It outlines the profile of user groups, patterns of use and the current impact of recreation on other ecosystem services. It categorises the Page 14 of 93

15 Eastern Mournes as of major national significance, the Western Mournes as regional significance and Slieve Croob as local significance as a recreation, tourism and landscape resource (pp. 9) How does the Mournes Outdoor Recreation Plan fit with the above? Many if not all of the recommendations put forward in Dafydd s Review will be adopted by this Outdoor Recreation Plan, as advocated by consultees of this study. This Plan is not a duplication of the Review but an amalgamation of the findings of both contemporary studies. Mourne AONB Access Audit 2007 This audit was completed by the Countryside Access & Activities Network (CAAN) now known as Outdoor Recreation NI. Although now 7 years old it gives an encompassing overview of national access legislation, local access arrangements and land ownership, the provision of public rights of way and the wide-ranging issues associated with access in the Mournes including economic, institutional, legal, management, practical, recreational and social. But despite being 7 years old, the nature of this information means that the findings are still applicable and current today. How does the Mournes Outdoor Recreation Plan fit with the above? Much of the findings about access, land ownership and issues associated with access can be used to inform the Outdoor Recreation Plan and will be used as a basis for consultation. This information will not be duplicated but will be referred to and used as a platform for more in-depth discussion to see if and how the access situation has changed. Where private landowners may be reluctant to engage in consultation this Audit will act as an insight into the type of discussion that might have been had Other Factors to Consider National Park Status In October 2012 the Environment Minister Alex Attwood announced that the proposal for a Mourne National Park was being withdrawn and would not be imposed due to a lack of support from within the local community. How does the Mournes Outdoor Recreation Plan fit with the above? This Plan is in no way related to the agenda for a National Park in the Mourne Mountains. Although a National Park remains a target within DETI s 2020 Draft Tourism Strategy for the benefit of economic growth, it has no bearing on this Plan which would still be produced with the same recommendations. Access to Public Forest Estate It is known that Forest Service NI intends to transfer the responsibility for the provision and management of recreation within its forests and forest parks to consenting local councils. This is already the case in Castlewellan Forest Park between Forest Service NI and Down District Council and in Rostrevor Forest between Forest Service NI and Newry and Mourne District Council. Currently there are plans to extend this agreement to all of the forests in the Down Council area, including Tollymore Forest Park, Donard Forest, Bunkers Hill and Tipperary Wood. Outdoor Recreation NI is also working on behalf of Down District Council on the re-development of several of these forests which include plans for the recreational trail network, buildings and associated visitor services. Page 15 of 93

16 How does the Mournes Outdoor Recreation Plan fit with the above? In addition to the above there is a host of exciting recreational development projects currently ongoing in the Mournes region which are not included in any one holistic document. This Plan will address this gap and provide a framework for development that both incorporates the current development taking place and the future opportunities identified through consultation. Page 16 of 93

17 4. NATURAL AND BUILT HERITAGE The Mourne and Slieve Croob area is rich in both natural and built heritage which is protected under a number of statutory designations. These designations in turn govern the management and development of this area to ensure the natural landscape and built features remain protected Natural Heritage The Mournes AONB was first designated in 1965 then re-designated in 1986 to its current boundary today. Within the study area - the Mourne and Slieve Croob AONB, there are 7 different types of statutory environmental designations (See Fig. 2). This incorporates: - 8x Landscape Character Areas (LCA) - 1x Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) - 9x Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) - 2x Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) - 1x Special Protection Area (SPA) - 2x National Nature Reserves (NNR); and - 1x Ramsar site A full list of natural heritage designations can be found in the Appendix Built Heritage Noted not only for the beauty of its natural landscape the Mournes area is rich in built heritage and archaeological features (See Fig. 3). Within and around the Mourne and Slieve Croob AONB study area there are: - 12x Historic Parks, Gardens and Demesnes - 663x Listed Buildings - 480x features listed on NIEA s Scheduled Monuments Record 7 o o o o 2x listed protection status 71x scheduled protection status 6x state care protection status 2x state care and scheduled protection status; and - 69x Scheduled Areas A full list of built heritage sites can be found in the Appendix. 7 NIEA s SMR can be found at: Page 17 of 93

18 Fig. 2 Natural Heritage

19 Fig. 3 Built Heritage Page 19 of 93

20 5. ACCESS This Plan found that access within the Mournes as outlined in 2007 Access Audit remains much the same and can be used as a contemporary guide for information. For the purpose of this Plan, the following is borrowed from the 2007 Audit to provide a synopsis 8. Access within the Mournes is predominantly on a de-facto basis meaning access is largely informal via a mix of single track pathways, sheep tracks and small roads used for farm access. This means that access is tolerated by private landowners and recreational users do not always have a right to be there. Formal access however is provided via a number of established or prescribed routes, such as Public Rights of Way and a smaller number of permissive paths 9. This study identified 67 public rights of way (PRoW), 20 of which are bridleways and 4 permissive paths totalling a distance of 57km or 35 miles approximately see Fig. 4 and the Appendix for a list of routes. Other formal routes, where permission has been granted, include the Ulster Way and Mourne Way which form long distance routes through the Mournes. In terms of access to the Mournes the Strategic Path Review identified 32 different access points; 21 in the Mournes and 11 in the Slieve Croob area; categorised into primary and secondary nodes (See Fig. 5). Primary nodes are those with formal car parking, visitor information/interpretation, access to the wider trail network and links to strategically important paths. Secondary nodes are limited in provision of the above. These nodes have been used extensively for years and form significant linear access routes linking the low-level Mournes with the higher, more exposed and unenclosed Mournes. The type of node also varies from a small lay-by and stile to a major car park and large access track with visitor services such as signage and toilets. Depending on their hierarchy of use 10 and ability to absorb high visitor pressure the following issues have become prevalent in the Mournes erosion, litter, traffic congestion, lack of parking and wild camping. Overall the Mournes is a relatively small area and the abundance of access points means access is relatively easy for visitors and a very permeable boundary exists between the lower and upper mountain regions. 8 The full 2007 Access Audit Report can be found at: 9 Information Source: NIEA 10 Taken from the 2012 Strategic Path Review

21 Fig. 4 Public Rights of Way and Permissive Paths

22 Fig. 5 Access Points

23 6. LAND OWNERSHIP Fig. 6 shows the extent and distribution of land owned within the study area 11. The majority of land in the Mournes is owned/managed by private landowners, predominantly made up of small private land holders comprising around an average of 15 hectares (2007 Access Audit; Section 8). The larger landowners are the Mourne Trustees (private) not mapped, Forest Service NI, NI Water and National Trust all public bodies. The Access Audit (2007) identified 13 trustee groups with grazing rights Slievenabrock, Clanawillan, Portadown and Banbridge, Downshire Estate Stang, Batts Estate, Mournes Middle, Mourne Mountains West, Killowen, Crossan, Slievenagarragh/Ballagh, Spences Mountain, Browne Knowe, Forks and Slieve Binnian plus Greencastle to Annalong (2007; Section 8). In total 8 public landowners have been identified through this study: - Forest Service NI (FSNI) - NI Water - Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) - Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) - National Trust - Down District Council - Newry & Mourne District Council - Banbridge District Council 12 There is also a significant amount of land classified as common land, that is, land owned by more than one person. This is typically confined to the central uplands, as shown in Fig. 6. In some case land mapped by land ownership does not necessarily mean it is also managed by that organisation, for example Silent Valley is owned by NI Water but managed by Forest Service NI. In terms of access, Fig. 6 highlights the extent of public land in the Mournes and therefore the potential opportunity to avail of this and create formal access to these site for recreation, where appropriate, and where it does not impact on any other ecosystem service, such as clean water supply. Of the public land owners/managers, both Forest Service NI and NI Water have recreation 13 and access strategies 14, respectively. These documents set out the departments approach to permitting access and developing recreation. 11 Where the extent of the ownership was known, this was shown as an area, for example for FSNI-owned land. Where the extent of land ownership was not known, this was shown in point format. 12 No land ownership data supplied 13 Forest Service NI (2009) A Strategy to Develop the Recreational and Social Use of Our Forests 14 NI Water (2013) Recreation and Access Policy

24 Fig. 6 Land Ownership

25 7. CURRENT PROVISION This chapter provides a brief synopsis of the current provision for all 30 recreation activities, the current issues face by users and the areas for development. It is not an exhaustive list of every site, trail and facility and often provides only the detail identified through consultation Land-Based Activities Adventure Racing Typically this activity is a combination of 2 or more endurance activities such as cross-country running, cycling, canoeing and swimming and involves the use of navigational skills. Due to its nature it is an activity which is formally organised and managed by local clubs and private event-based companies. It can take place in any natural setting with a variety of terrains and land and water based resources. This study identified the following sites where adventure races have been held: - Castlewellan Forest Park - Rostrevor Forest Archery This study identified the following sites where archery takes place: - Castlewellan Forest Park - Tollymore Forest Park - Narrow Water Forest - Mourne Park The nature of this activity also means that archery is typically organised by activity providers, takes place in forests via an activity permit from the landowner, usually Forest Service NI, and under the management of the organising club or activity provider. East Coast Adventure (private activity provider) also operates a dedicated archery and zip line centre in Mourne Park Blokarting The following sites where blokarting takes place were identified through this study: - Murlough Beach - Tyrella Beach Boot Camps Boot camps refer to the use of the outdoors for the improvement of physical fitness and is usually a programme of sessions organised by private sector operators Bushcraft This involves the learning and application of survival type skills in the outdoors such as lighting fires, eating wild food and making a water tight shelter, aka bivvy from natural materials, etc. Page 25 of 93

26 There were no sites identified through this study where bush craft is taught however it is known that courses are delivered through activity providers and outdoor education centres at various locations including the open mountain and forest parks Clay Pigeon Shooting Castlewellan Forest Park was the only site identified through this study where clay pigeon shooting takes place. As with other inherently dangerous activities, clay pigeon shooting takes place on private land at the permission of the landowner and under the strict management of the organising club, activity provider or outdoor centre Cycling (On and Off Road Cycling) For this study cycling is split into off-road family cycling trails and on-road routes. The following sites have been identified were off-road family cycling takes place formally: - Castlewellan Forest Park Informally: - Ben Crom - Donard Park - Island Park - Mourne Esplanade - Silent Valley There is also a network of on-road cycling routes 15 that are promoted through CycleNI : - Cranfield Greencastle Route - Dundrum Coastal Path - Head Road - Kilkeel/Knockchree - Legananny - Mournes Food Cycle - Newcastle/Lough Island Reavy - Poets Trail O Neill - Rostrevor Cycle Route - Slieve Croob Cycle Route There are also a number of high profile road-cycling events, races and sportives taking place in the Mournes on an annual basis with participation amongst cycling clubs. This includes: - Etape Mourne - Mourne Sportive (Dromara CC) 15 This does not include the intricate network of local cycle paths (DRD Roads Service), only promoted routes on CycleNI.com. Page 26 of 93

27 Trail quests which are off-road cycling orienteering events working individually or as a team are also growing in prominence particularly in the Mournes where the landscape and trails lend themselves well to. In recent years Dromara Cycling Club has organised events in Shimna Valley, Seaforde and Dollys Brae, etc Fell running Due to the nature of mountainous terrain fell running commonly takes place across the whole Mournes region using a mixture of small roads, pathways and tracks. Through this study the following sites were specifically identified as being used by fell-runners: - Castlewellan Forest Park - Crotlieve - Donard Forest - Rostrevor Forest - Slieve Croob - Tollymore Forest Park The NI Mountain Running Association also organises and manages a series of races throughout the year including the popular Hill and Dale series. The popularity of these events often means that issues of parking and congestion are exacerbated at main access points to the mountains on days when races are being held High Ropes /Ziplines The largest permanent high ropes facility in the Mournes is located at Tollymore National Outdoor Centre. East Coast Adventure (private operator) also operates an archery and zip line centre in Mourne Park. In the Mournes, this activity tends to be used for training, team building and personal development by activity providers and outdoor education centres as opposed to a tourist attraction or commercial venture Hill Walking For the purpose of this study hill walking is dealt with separately from walking. Hill walking is defined as walking generally above 300 metres and undertaken by persons who are appropriately equipped with the knowledge and kit to deal with/survive in the outdoors and the risks that changeable weather can pose. A full outline of the trail systems in the mid- to high- level Mournes used by hill walkers can be found in the Mourne Strategic Path Review. Some of the long and medium distance quality walks, as outlined in Section are also used by hill walkers Horse Riding This activity is primarily provided through local clubs and equestrian centres that can use both private land and facilities and the public forest estate as well as the network of bridle ways. In Northern Ireland, Down District Council has the densest network of bridleways. Equestrian centres include The Gamekeepers Lodge, Mourne Trail Riding Centre and Mount Pleasant Riding Centre. Bridleways include Darby s Loanin and Glen Loanin For a full list of bridle ways see Appendix?? Page 27 of 93

28 Forests/forest parks include Castlewellan Forest Park, Rostrevor Forest and Tollymore Forest Park formally and Kilbroney Forest informally. Again where horse riding occurs in FSNI sites this requires permission via an activity permit. Murlough Beach (owned by National Trust) is a popular venue for horse-riding Kite Buggying There were no sites where kite buggying takes place identified through this study Mountain Biking The Mournes is home to the first wave of mountain biking development in Northern Ireland. For years the Mournes have been a haven for mountain bikers informally. Now national trail centres, launched in May 2013, exist at the following locations: - Castlewellan Forest Park (28 km includes red with black options, blue and green trails and a pump track) - Rostrevor Forest (26 kms includes red, black and 2 downhill trails) Tollymore National Outdoor Centre provides a local mountain biking facility; a skills course with 1.5km of single track and a range of technical features. Informally Tollymore Forest Park and Donard Forest are popular venues for mountain biking, particularly downhill trails and jumps in the latter; alluding to a demand for natural trail riding. Other informal sites include Narrow Water Forest, Tipperary Wood, Moneyscalp Wood, the Ulster Way and a network of un-prescribed trails across the open mountain linking various sites. With the creation of these trail centres the Mournes now has the infrastructure to host mountain biking events, from a local to international scale. To date the Single Speed European Championships 2014 have been held in Castlewellan Forest Park and the International Downhill Mountain Bike Series and the Ulster Cross Country Series in Rostrevor Forest Park in March It was identified through consultation that the majority of issues voiced by mountain bikers relate to the evolution of the mountain biking product and refinement issues in terms of technical features and the location of facilities and services. In terms of development the focus tends to be on connecting existing trail centres, creating journeys and extending/improving the trail product in existing centres. Usage The following table gives the usage figures for the mountain bikes trails in the Mournes. SITE USAGE (for period June 2013-March 2014) Castlewellan Cross Country Trail 21,973 Castlewellan Pump Track 3,209 (Jan-Mar 2014 only) Rostrevor Cross Country Trail 13,371 Rostrevor Downhill 1 Mega Mission 17,502 Table 3 Mountain Bike Trails - Usage Page 28 of 93

29 Mountain Boarding Currently there are no designated centres for mountain boarding in the Mournes Orienteering A permanent orienteering course exists at Castlewellan Forest Park. In addition the following forests/areas have been mapped for orienteering by NI Orienteering: - Croob/Garron/Cratlieve/Drumkeeragh - Donard Forest - Drumkeeragh Forest - Meelmore Lodge/Lukes Mountain - Murlough Bay - Newcastle Town/Tipperary Wood - Rostrevor Forest - Silent Valley - Slievemartin/Rostrevor Forest/ Kilbroney Park - Slievenagore/Silent Valley - Tollymore Forest Park An ecotrail course exists at Kilbroney Park. 17 The development of this activity is primarily the remit of the governing body, NI Orienteering but currently the main issue faced by orienteers is the impact caused by developing mountain bike trails and how this reduces the complexity of orienteering maps and in some cases renders them useful Paintballing There are currently no designated paintballing sites in the Mournes study area Rock Climbing The Mournes Massif is one of best areas for outdoor climbing in Northern Ireland; Fairhead and a few sites in Fermanagh are amongst others. In the Mournes climbers tend to use mountains crags and outcrops 18, in particular; - Little Binnian - Binnian Tors - Douglas Crag - Blue Lough Buttress - Buzzards Roost - Percy Bysshe - Lamagan - Lower Cove 17 See 18 Information sourced from MCI Guide Mournes booklet Page 29 of 93

30 - Upper Cove - Slieve Beg - Slieve Commedagh - Annalong Buttress - Hare s Castle - Chimney Rock - Eagle Rocks - Spellack - Slievenaglogh Buttress - Meelmore Buttress - Bearnagh Slabs - Bearnagh Tors - Ben Crom - Doan - Pigeon - Slievenaglogh Bluffs - Eagle Mountain - Hen Mountain Altnadue Quarry near Castlewellan is also used extensively by outdoor education centres, activity providers, clubs and individuals with groups and as a training venue. It is leased from a local farmer by Sport NI and is managed by Tollymore National Outdoor Centre. A feasibility study 19 was conducted in 2013 to outline the options, costs and viability of developing this site as a regional climbing facility. As of March 2014, no planning applications have been lodged. Climbers are typically split into groups and individuals groups tend to use Altnadue Quarry, Hen Mountain and Pigeon Rock mostly due to ease of access and proximity to road. At Hen Mountain in particular there is the problem of car/bus parking at top of track instead of using car park on the main road which is an issue for private landowner. Another issue affecting access for climbers is nesting birds. This means that in certain seasons climbing is not possible, e.g. Kestrels in Altnadue Quarry. In terms of development maintaining and securing access to sites for climbers is key, in addition to solving the lesser issue of parking congestion Segway There are currently no activity providers offering segway activities in the Mournes study area. 19 Funded by Sport NI and conducted by Consarc Design Group, Feb 2013 Page 30 of 93

31 Walking The Mourne AONB Access Audit states that walking is the most popular activity in the Mournes. The following is a list of trails and sites where walking occurs, formally and informally. For a full breakdown of the recreational trail network in the Mournes see the Strategic Path Review (2012). Formal Trails and Sites 3x long distance Quality Walks : - Lecale Way - Mourne Way - Mourne Wall Challenge 7x medium distance Quality Walks : - Castlewellan Forest Park Slievenaslaat Trail - Glen River - Lough Shannagh - Slieve Binnian - Slieve Donard from Bloody Bridge - Slieve Donard via Glen River - Tollymore Forest Park Mountain & Drinn Trail 16x short distance Quality Walks: - Bloody Bridge - Dundrum Castle Woods Trail - Dundrum Coastal Path - Fairy Glen - Granite Trail - Hares Gap - Mourne Coastal Path - Murlough NNR - Rocky Mountain - Rostreor to Cloughmore Stone - Slieve Croob Transmitter Walk - Slievemartin - Castlewellan Forest Park - Cypress Pond Trail - Castlewellan Forest Park - Lake Path - Tollymore Forest Park Arboretum Path - Tollymore Forest Park River Trail Page 31 of 93

32 Formal Sites The following sites have been identified where there is formal provision for walking. No. SITE LANDOWNER 1 Silent Valley NI Water 2 Rostrevor Wood NNR NIEA 3 Dundrum Castle SCM NIEA 4 Silent Valley NI Water 5 Ben Crom NI Water 6 Fofanny NI Water 7 Castle Park Council 8 Island Park Council 9 Donard Park Council 10 Castlewellan Forest Park Forest Service 11 Donard Forest Forest Service 12 Rostrevor Forest Forest Service 13 Tollymore Forest Park Forest Service 14 Fairy Glen Council 15 Carrick Little Amenity Area Council 16 Mourne Esplanade Council 17 Kilbroney Park Council 18 Dundrum Coastal Path National Trust 19 Mourne Coastal Path National Trust 20 Murlough Nature Reserve National Trust 21 Slieve Donard National Trust Table 4 Formal Walking Sites Informal Sites The following sites have been identified where there is no formal provision for walking. No. SITE LANDOWNER 1 Spelga NI Water 2 Twelve Arches Recreation Area Council 3 Annalong Forest Forest Service NI 4 Drumkeeragh Forest Forest Service NI 5 Mourne Forest Forest Service NI Page 32 of 93

33 6 Narrow Water Forest Forest Service NI 7 Cranfield Amenity Area Council 8 Warrenpoint Foreshore Newry & Mourne District Council 9 Annalong Marine Park Newry & Mourne District Council 10 Donaghaguy Reservoir Newry & Mourne District Council 11 Milltown Newry & Mourne District Council 12 Clonallon Park Newry & Mourne District Council 13 Bryansford National Trust Table 5 Informal Walking Sites Usage Overall there is a lack of monitoring data relating to the usage of trails and sites for walking. Of that which was available, the following was collated. SITE USAGE (for period May 2013-Oct 2014) Fofanny Glen 11,103 Trassey Track 12,235 Ott Track 10,853 Carrick Little 11,318 Table 6 Walking Sites - Usage (Source: Mourne Heritage Trust) Zorbing There are currently no activity providers offering zorbing activities in the Mournes study area Water-based Activities Angling This study identified the following sites where angling takes place: - Ballylough Lake - Bloody Bridge - Carlingford Lough (Loughs Agency) - Castle Park - Castlewellan Lake (DCAL) - Donaghaguy Reservoir - Lough Island Reavy - Moneycarragh River Page 33 of 93

34 - Newry Canal - River Bann - Shimna River (DCAL) - Spelga Reservoir (DCAL) - Whitewater River (Loughs Agency) Depending on location angling permits and licences are provided through the Loughs Agency, DCAL, local clubs with fishing rights or arranged through a private activity provider. Generally angling in the Mournes is a local-based activity meaning there is a gap in angling-based tourism, as identified through A Strategic Review of Angling in Northern Ireland (July 2013). This study found that at a local level infrastructure and facilities are under-developed and in terms of tourism access to facilities, information and advice not least about permits and licences are barriers to the growth of the activity (2013, pp ) Boat Cruising This study identified the following sites where boat cruising is provided: - Annalong Marine Park - Cranfield amenity area This activity is predominantly offered through private operators and businesses Bouldering Bouldering, otherwise known as gorge walking, takes place at the following sites: - Bloody Bridge - Amy s Biver - Tullybrannigan River - Spinkwee River In particular there is very extensive use made of the section between the sea at Bloody Bridge and the jumps downstream of the Glenfofanny river junction. Sport NI in partnership with the National Trust has developed a charter for bouldering usage at this site. While the number of users have had no significant impact on the river bed and granite boulders at Bloody Bridge concerns have been raised about erosion on the banks especially at access and egress points. Concerns have also been raised about speed of traffic and numbers of users crossing the road at Bloody Bridge. Closure of the Ballagh River for bouldering due to concerns about liability is also an issue for users Canoeing/Kayaking/Slalom There is one coastal canoe trail promoted to the tourism market the South East Canoe Trail 20. This sea kayaking trail stretches more than 50 nautical miles from Strangford Lough to Carlingford Lough and has several formal egress points. Formally, paddlers also access the coast at Cranfield amenity area and Annalong Marine Park. It was identified that white water canoeing can take place at: 20 See Page 34 of 93

35 - Whitewater River - Shimna River - Upper Bann Flat water canoeing is confined to inland lakes and reservoirs, for example: - Castlewellan Lake (formal) - Lough Island Reavy (informal) Through this study it was identified that canoeing is under-developed on inland lakes and reservoirs. Going forward the development of this activity should focus on increasing access to these publically owned sites where it does not negatively impact on other ecosystem services being provided by that resource, e.g. clean water supply Caving Through this study no sites were identified where caving takes place Coasteering This activity takes place at various places along the coast between Newcastle and Bloody Bridge Diving Through this study no sites were identified where diving takes place Hovercrafting No sites were identified through this study where hovercrafting takes place Rowing An annual regatta takes place at Castlewellan Lake through Queens University Rowing Club Sailing The following sites were identified as locations where sailing takes place: - Annalong Marine Park - Dundrum Inner Bay (c/o Dundrum Sailing Club) - Newcastle Harbour (c/o Newcastle Yacht Club) This study identified that there are opportunities to develop this activity further primarily through the development of sailing clubs Stand-Up Paddleboarding Within the study area it was identified that this activity is provided through Cloghmor Extreme Surfing Through this study no sites were identified where surfing takes place Waterskiing/Wakeboarding Through this study it was identified that these activities occur informally at Cranfied. Page 35 of 93

36 Windsurfing Through this study no sites were identified where windsurfing takes place Air-based Activities Aero-modelling Through this study no sites were identified where model flying takes place Gliding Through this study no sites were identified where gliding takes place Hang Gliding/Paragliding Through this study it was found that in the last 2-3 years hang gliding and paragliding is increasing in the Mournes. Depending on weather conditions, hang gliding and paragliding take place from the following sites; - Ballyvally Mountain - Cloghgarran - Cock Mountain - Mayobridge (Edentrumly)/Carmeen (periphery site); suitable for cross country flights - Slieveban, Rostrevor - Slieve Binnian - Slieve Commedagh - Slieve Donard - Slieve Gullion (periphery site); suitable for cross country flights - Slieve Meelmore - Slieve Muck - Spelga Mountain - Spences Mountain The development of this activity relies primarily on the governing body, the Ulster Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club (UHGPC), but current issues faced by gliders concern the ambiguity over land ownership (who to ask for permission for new access) and co-ordination with emergency services Micro-light Flying Northern Irelands only flying club The Ulster Flying Club is located in Newtownards. Depending on weather conditions flights do take place across the study area but not originating within the study area Sky Diving/ Parachuting There are no sky diving centres located within the Mournes study area. Page 36 of 93

37 7.4. Outdoor Education Centres There are 4 outdoor centres in the study area providing opportunities for instructor training and participation in recreational activities. These are: - Tollymore National Outdoor Centre (funded and managed by Sport NI) - Ardnabannon OEC (SEELB) - Killowen OEC (SELB) - Shannagh-more OEC (SEELB) Tollymore National Outdoor Centre This is the National Centre for mountaineering and canoeing but also provides courses in mountain biking, high ropes, coasteering, slack lining and orienteering. It provides training facilities for outdoor instructors and leaders and also outdoor activities for groups of adults and young people. Shannagh-more, Ardnabannon and Killowen OEC s These centres are all funded and managed by Education and Library Boards (Southern and South Eastern). Their purpose is to deliver outdoor education programmes through day visits or residentials. Programmes are specifically designed for young people and their leaders/instructors and encourage personal and social development through outdoor activities such as canoeing, hill walking, bouldering, sailing, orienteering and mulit-activity skills such as bushcraft, etc. An integral part of the instructor s work is to encourage independence in the outdoors, personal responsibility and responsibility for the natural environment through stewardship principles. Through this study there was a consensus identified that increasing the level of access to the high Mournes may have a detrimental impact on the landscape and increase the risk to recreational users, in particular those whom are less experienced in remote areas and lack skills of navigation and basic survival. As such developing recreation in the Mournes should incorporate the values of skills development, personal safety and responsibility, leadership and respect for the natural environment. Greenhill YMCA National Outdoor Centre Greenhill Centre is an outdoor education and residential centre located on the edge of Donard Forest. The programmes and activities specifically target youth organisations with the aim of providing personal development with a Christian ethos Activity Providers In total 22 activity providers were identified as being located or operating within the Mournes study area; 17 private operators, 1 national outdoor centre, 3 outdoor education centres and 1 YMCA organisation. 1. Anarky Paintball Activities - paintballing 2. Ardnabannon OEC Page 37 of 93

38 Activities hillwalking, orienteering, bouldering, canoeing, fieldwork, archery, high ropes course, zipline 3. Castle Cruises (Carlingford Lough) Activities boat cruises 4. Cloughmore Extreme Activities bouldering, hill walking, mountain biking, orienteering, horse riding, stand up paddle boarding, slack lining an team building 5. Cnocnafeola Centre (community business) Activities walking, hiking, climbing, mountain biking, climbing, fishing, golf, horse riding 6. East Coast Adventure Activities mountain biking, archery, ziplines, team building, bushcraft, canoeing, kayaking, jet skiing, bouldering, rock climbing, rope traversing, orienteering, hillwalking, gorge walking, etc. 7. First Tracks MTB Activities mountain biking 8. Greenhill YMCA Activities archery, bouldering, canoeing, climbing, team building, orienteering, bushcraft, ropes traverse, zipline and walking 9. Killowen OEC Activities sailing, canoeing, bouldering, orienteering, mountaineering, ropes traverse 10. LIFE Adventure (Annalong) Activities - canoeing, mountain biking, bushcraft, team building, orienteering, archery, bouldering, coasteering, sea kayaking, canoeing, canyoning, hillwalking, rock climbing. 11. LIFE (Castlewellan) Activities as above. 12. Mourne Bikes Activities bike hire 13. Mourne Spirit Activities hillwalking. 14. Mountain Sojourns Activities hillwalking. 15. Outdoor Ireland North Activities hillwalking and cycling. 16. Ride the Mournes Activities mountain biking. 17. Rock and Ride Outdoors Activities mountaineering, rock climbing and mountain biking. 18. Rostrevor Holidays Page 38 of 93

39 Activities walking, cycling, mountain biking, fishing, horse riding 19. Shannagh-More OEC Activities abseiling, archery, walking, canoeing, bouldering, rock climbing, horse riding, orienteering, climbing wall, ropes course, Duke of Edinburgh, John Muir award, personal development, rescue emergency care and first aid training. 20. Tollymore National Outdoor Centre Activities mountain biking, canoeing, mountaineering, slack lining, ropes course, orienteering, kayaking, coasteering and team building. 21. Walks in the Mournes Activities hillwalking Extreme Activities event organisation: running, cycling, adventure, multi sport (e.g. duathlons) and charity 7.6. Events The nature of the terrain, its mix of challenge and environment, its iconic status and relative ease of accessibility means that the Mournes is a desirable destination for holding events. Events of all types and scale are held in the Mournes, for example; Walking - Mourne International Walking Festival; Down District Walking Festival; Wee Binnian Walking Festival Running - Hill & Dale Series; Mourne Mountain Marathon; Donard Race Mountain Biking - International Downhill Mountain Biking Series (IDMS); Ulster Cross Country Series; Winter League Mountain Biking event Cycling (on-road) - Mourne Etape Adventure races and large scale charity events are also growing in prominence which brings additional pressure on the already susceptible natural environment and exacerbate the issue of parking congestion at key access points. The table below shows the 2013 event calendar and is representative of the types of events that are becoming increasingly common and the routes used, e.g. Donard Park to Slieve Donard summit. No. Event/ Organisation 1 St Patrick s Trail Walk Northern Walking Month Participants Route March - Not specified 2 Mountain Ventures April 50 Glen River up and down Slieve Donard Annual Event (Y/N) N N Page 39 of 93

40 No. Event/ Organisation Month Participants Route 3 Kilcoo Gaelic Club April Start Donard Car Park 4 Mourne Mountain Adventure (MMA) 5 Chest, Heart & Stroke event Finish Tollymore Forest Park Route Glen River, Donard, Brandy Pad, Hares Gap, Meelmore, Happy Valley, Tollymore April 252 Tollymore-Trassey-Brandy Pad- Donard-Glen River-Newcastle Beach on boats to Ballykinler May Glen River up and down Slieve Donard 6 NI Hospice Event May - Donard Horseshoe N 7 Coast to Coast 26 Extreme May - Not specified. 8 Concern event May - Donard and Glen River N 9 St John s GAC event June - Donard, Commedagh Challenge and road run 10 Mourne Trek Marie Curie 11 Mourne Way Marathon 26 Extreme 12 Focus Ireland 4 Peaks Challenge 13 Slieve Donard Moonlit Trek Cancer focus NI event June - Slieve Donard Hotel to Slieve Donard summit via beach June events 5km, 10km, 13 miles, 26 miles and 52 miles on Mourne Way Start Kilbroney Park, Donard Park, Slievemann Road, Leitrim Lodge Finish Kilbroney Park June 244 Slieve Donard June - Slieve Donard 14 Oxfam Trailtrekker June km Mourne Way to Carlingford Annual Event (Y/N) N Y N N N N Y Y Y Page 40 of 93

41 No. Event/ Organisation 15 Donard Dozen Challenge Cancer Focus NI 16 PLOD Mountain Endurance Walk Action Medical Research 17 Mourne International Walking Festival 18 UK 4 Peaks Challenge Walk 19 Celtic Traverse 26 Extreme Month Participants Route June - Small group to Donard 12 times in 36 hours June 124 Not specified June - Not specified June - Slieve Donard Donard Park to Slieve Donard summit via Glen River June 60 Mourne Way/Brandy Pad 20 Mourne Walk Challenge June - 22 miles, Mourne Way N 21 Slieve Donard Pilgrimage Life/Trocaire 22 Women s Mini Marathon 26 Extreme 23 Mourne Mountain Race World Police & Fire Games 24 Mourne Seven 7 s Challenge Walk Spartan Red Socks July - Newcastle to Slieve Donard loop from Bloody Bridge July - Road race Finish Donard Park Aug 250 Check points Donard Park, Slieve Donard, Commedagh Aug - Slieve Donard plus 6 other peaks over 700m 25 MS Society event Aug - Slieve Donard N 26 4:48 Challenge Christian Aid 27 Annalong Valley Trek Ulster Cancer Foundation 28 Cancer Fund for Children event Aug 20 Donard plus 3 other peaks in Ireland Aug 40 Carrick Little car park Slieve Binnian Cove Mountain Slieve Beg Slieve Commedagh Slieve Donard Rock Mountain returning Annalong Valley Aug - Donard Car Park to Slieve Donard via Glen River Annual Event (Y/N) N N N N N N N N Y N N N Page 41 of 93

42 No. Event/ Organisation 29 Trek the Magical Mournes Ten Foundations Org 30 Mourne Wall Walk Life 31 Friends of Cancer Centre event 32 Wee Binnian Walking Festival 33 Friends Cancer Support event 34 Mourne Mountain Hack NSPCC 35 Mourne Mountain Marathon Spartan Red Socks Month Participants Route Aug - 4 day adventure route Sept - Mourne Wall Sept - Slieve Donard Sept - Not specificied Sept - Slieve Donard Sept miles Sept - Not specified Donard car park-glen River- Donard Saddle-Brandy Pad- Hares Gap-Pollaphuca- Meelmore-Loughshannagh- Fofanny-Mourne Way- Tollymore-Donard Park 36 Simon Community event Sept - Slieve Donard N 37 Cedar Foundation event Sept - Slieve Donard via Glen River N 38 Slieve Donard Challenge CLIC Sargent 39 The Wall Adventure Duathlon 26 Extreme Sept 100 Slieve Donard via Glen River Oct - Carrick Little, Ben Crom and Binnian Table Events Calendar (Source: Mourne Heritage Trust) Annual Event (Y/N) N N N Y N Y Y N Y 7.7. Summary The Mourne AONB Access Study (2007) stated that walking, cycling (including mountain biking) and horse riding are the three most popular activities. The 2007 study also found that: - Activities are not undertaken on a geographically uniform basis; and Page 42 of 93

43 - The area favours experienced users over the casual day-visitor This study has found that the above is still accurate in In addition the findings from this study indicate that fell running, orienteering, climbing, angling and more in recent years - hang gliding and paragliding are popular activities. These activities together with water-based activities, canoeing, kayaking and sailing, represent the main areas for growth for both the local community and tourists. The abundance of activity providers in the study area is also representative of the strength of the outdoor activity market in the Mournes and the benefit this has to the growing economy. Activity providers have the ability to offer packages and unique products such as high ropes courses to the visitor market. Going forward this group together with outdoor centres should continue to be supported as assets to the outdoor recreation and activity tourism sector. Page 43 of 93

44 8. CONSULTATION RESULTS Consultation was carried out through 3 public events and direct and telephone interviews with stakeholders and questionnaires. A full list of event attendees can be found in the Appendix. The following is a summary of the main findings which were raised throughout the study process. At a strategic level, development should be about; - Collaborative working and decision-making across the range of government departments which have a responsibility for access and recreation - Addressing the bigger, strategic issues such as access legislation, liability and adopting a total ecosystems approach to development and management of recreation in the Mournes - Protecting the natural resource; a balance needs to be sought between economic development and environmental protection; development should not be at the expense of the environment - Preserving the remoteness of the Mournes, and controlling access - Development within a strategic framework; not piecemeal, individual projects; development of facilities, products and access should contribute to achieving/delivering more strategic projects - Path maintenance and management and less about path creation in the high Mournes - Education and promoting personal safety and responsible use of the Mournes - Building positive relationships with private landowners - Removing the negative reputation associated with recreationalists in the Mournes - Managing events to have minimal impact on the Mournes - Planning for the long term and for particular target user groups, i.e. delivering recreation products which are economically viable and environmentally sustainable - Addressing the existing issues instead of exacerbating them or creating new issues through unplanned development At a local level, development should be about; - Addressing the existing issues associated with high impact visitor pressure such as car parking - Increasing participation without necessarily creating more product - Development at the lower mountain levels and management in the upper mountain levels - Focus on publically owned land - Focus on water-based sites, the coastline and forests; sites at a low level which have the ability or carrying capacity to absorb the impact of high visitors numbers - Creating linkages and connections between existing trails and sites; extending the trail network and enhancing recreation product without creating a host of new trails and sites - Developing disabled access where appropriate; not all of the Mournes needs to be fully accessible or indeed pedestrianised - Providing signage, and direction where appropriate - Maintaining and supporting the creation of Public Rights of Way and Permissive Paths - Considering the impact of product development on surrounding businesses and activities, e.g. displacement vs. additionality Page 44 of 93

45 9. SWOT ANALYSIS This SWOT analysis outlines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats associated with the development of outdoor recreation development in the Mournes, at a local level. STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES - NITB signature destination - Natural landscape famous Mountains of Mourne - Geographical proximity to Strangford Lough another NITB signature destination - Reputation as an adventure playground in NI - Proximity to centres of population, e.g. Newry, Newcastle and Castlewellan - The variety of environments which support a variety of outdoor activities - coastline, mountains, forests, rivers, loughs, etc - Existing network of recreational trails, i.e. walking - Mournes mountain bike trails - Existence of Mourne Heritage Trust; umbrella organisation working with private landowners through to central government departments - Existence of Mourne ORF umbrella group bringing together all stakeholders interested in recreation - Recent path erosion works, especially at Binnian and Donard - Existing waymarked ways such as Mourne Way/Ulster Way - Upcoming Review of Public Adminstration - Network of activity providers and outdoor centres in Mournes - Associated impact of high participation, e.g. path erosion, parking congestion, litter, camping, anti-social behaviour, etc. - Historical issues of car parking, wild camping, congestion, poor public transport still ongoing today lack of solutions to these - Impact of large-scale, unplanned events on Mournes paths and natural environment - Not fully utilising existing assets and current product to full potential, e.g. walking and mountain biking - Lack of low level walking trails - Lack of coastline development - Lack of water based activities - Lack of facilities for children and families - Public transport - Provision of parking - Lack of total ecosystems approach to development and management - Management of current access points to the hills, e.g. Carrick Little, Bloody Bridge - Ambiguity over legal status of access and permission to private land - Connectivity between sites - Absence of leisure centre in Newcastle Page 45 of 93

46 OPPORTUNITIES THREATS - Planning for the long term and for particular target user groups, i.e. delivering recreation products which are economically viable and environmentally sustainable - Addressing the existing issues associated with high impact visitor pressure such as lack of car parking and inadequate camping provision - Focus on publically owned land public forest estate and NI Water owned reservoirs - Deliver recommended actions of Mourne Strategic Path Review - Development of recreation facilities and services within public forest estate - Better education and awareness of personal safety and responsible use of Mournes for recreation - Continue to develop positive relationships with landowners protect access arrangements made to date - Promotion of activity hubs, e.g. Tollymore, Rostrevor, Castlewellan, Silent Valley and Donard Park - Coastline development; Newcastle Harbour and Dundrum Bay, Annalong, Murlough, etc - Water-based activities; canoeing and sailing along coastlines, on inland lakes and reservoirs and rivers - Creating linkages/connections between existing sites and trails to enhance product offering - Disused, abandoned railways represent new trail corridors - Create walk/cycle way along Silent Valley pipeline - Development of low level trails - Lack of strategic planning for recreation in the Mournes; what is the need for development projects and what is the strategic value, i.e. what will it add and is it sustainable? - Lack of partnership working and joined up thinking at central government level - Lack of secure access to coast, public land sites and uplands - Risk of litigation from private landowners - Lack of total ecosystems approach to development and management - Weakening relationships with private landowners - Funding; availability and amount - Relative ease of access into the high Mournes, yet - Increased risk to those inexperienced users - Lack of responsible use of the Mournes - Downgrading the importance of wildness and remoteness of Mournes - Increased access and increased participation may exacerbate existing problems - parking, camping, anti-social behaviour, litigation, damage to fencing, gates and livestock, etc. - Increase in large scale, unplanned events may damage natural environment Table 8 SWOT Analysis Page 46 of 93

47 10. ISSUES AND BARRIERS The Mourne AONB Access Audit (2007) gives a comprehensive review of all the issues affecting the Mournes related to access, legal, economic, institutional, management and practical. This study found that all of these issues still apply and have not changed since the Access Audit was carried out. For summary purposes this section outlines the current issues associated with recreational use of the Mournes and potential barriers to development. Issues There are a number of key historical issues in the Mournes which need to be addressed above all others. These were repeatedly identified through consultation and are: - The need for secure, permanent access across the whole of Mournes; introduction of public access to the open country - The need for a shared approach across central government departments and agencies to access and recreation development; there is a need for development to contribute to a strategic plan - Review of NI access legislation; and in particular clarity over private landowner liability These issues are above and beyond the remit of the Plan however that is not to say that they are not important. These are critical issues which are determining the nature of access and recreation development. Lobbying and seeking solutions to the above issues will fall under the remit of the National Outdoor Recreation Forum which will be formed as an outcome of the NI Outdoor Recreation Plan (Action 1B, pp.16). At a local level the following issues have been identified which affect outdoor recreation. Again these are historical issues which have been prevalent in the Mournes for many years. They are: - Car parking lack of secure and adequate parking facilities, in particular at key access nodes or gateways such as Carrick Little, Trassey Track, Bloody Bridge, Happy Valley, etc (See Strategic Path Review 2012) - Traffic congestion - exacerbated by poor public transport network - Provision of basic facilities, e.g. toilets and bins, especially at key access nodes or gateway sites - Wild camping and associated issues, e.g. litter and sanitary waste and the negative impact this can have on relationships with private landowners - Path erosion; increase in access is likely to increase erosion - Damage to property, fences, gates and livestock - Anti-social behaviour, e.g. noise, lighting fires, vandalism The above were recognised by all consultees as issues which need addressed when considering recreation development. However it is also recognised that there are no quick-fix solutions although some may be easier to address than others. For example already additional parking facilities have been provided on private land. Regardless, the above should be considered when planning any development, i.e. does that development enhance the issue or go some way to alleviate it? Page 47 of 93

48 11. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT The BIG Issues In terms of future development the most important issues to be addressed have been named in the previous chapter, e.g. better access legislation and the creation of one vision/strategic approach to outdoor recreation in the Mournes across government departments. The Mournes has a reputation for being one of Northern Ireland s greatest outdoor adventure playgrounds and as such experiences high levels of use both in the lower and upper levels. In order for this to continue sustainably the big issues need to be addressed however they are outside the remit of this Plan. The responsibility of tackling these issues will lie with the Strategic Outdoor Recreation Group as outlined in Action 1A of the NI Outdoor Recreation Plan. At the same time it is important that recreation development where it is appropriate, needed and strategically valuable - continues at the local level via a bottom-up approach The Bottom Up Approach This Plan adopts the ethos of the Strategic Path Review in terms of development, the priority must be to prevent recreational use from having any further impact upon the landscape, habitats, land use and the integrity of recreational experiences...it is important to prevent impacts from spreading to areas that are not currently under excessive pressure and this requires a strategic approach to recreation planning and provision (pp.41). For this reason development at a local level has been split into two zones; high Mournes and low Mournes, because the type of development should differ in both. The High Mournes is perceived to have reached an acceptable level of product provision, in other words no more new development is needed. This is advocated by the Strategic Path Review and the majority of project consultees. Therefore the way forward for the uplands is focused on management rather than development. Any new development should focus on the low Mournes and in particular the coastline, the public forest estate and other public land sites, both land and water based. In summary this Plan identified two types of development; (i) management/enhancement of the existing access and provision and (ii) creation of new access and provision. Both should be SUSTAINABLE and STRATEGIC High Mournes Development This Plan identifies the following as priority areas for recreation development in the high Mournes: 1. Deliver the recommendations of Strategic Path Review - 21 (a) Mitigate and manage the current impacts (b) Maintain the status quo of access 21 List of recommendations is a summary for full list and explanation see full report, pages Page 48 of 93

49 (c) Maintain and manage the existing low level path network (d) Focus on mid to low level development especially more formalised provision at key management and access nodes (e) Enhance and develop new low level routes to mitigate current and future pressure on the more remote and summit areas (f) Sustain mid-elevation thorough fares; develop new links between access points which reinforce mid-elevation use (g) Establish link between Bloody Bridge path and Donard Forest and Donard Forest to Tollymore Forest Park (creating circular loop linking Donard Park, Trassey Track, Hares Gap, and Brandy Pad) (h) Develop more formal low level recreational opportunities at key access nodes, e.g. Rostrevor Forest, Silent Valley, Donard Forest, Tollymore Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park a. Develop prescribed trails, provide Mournes experience, provide information, incorporate management resources, e,g, ranger, install basic visitor facilities and link to public transport (i) Further develop Castlewellan and Tollymore Forest Parks (j) Review and upgrade where necessary the Mourne Way; improve sustainability of key parts to accommodate events and lower elevation use (k) Maintain and manage the existing upland path network, carrying out path works at 15 different tracks identified (l) Introduce better management mechanisms for the existing path network particularly for establishing access agreements with private landowners, clarifying the status of a routes, providing site information, best practice ethics and local weather updates (m) Implement an appropriately resourced programme of on-site management and maintenance with an enhanced ranger capacity and erosion control/path repair team to enable a more stitch in time approach to be taken (n) Establish a programme of education, information and training for users/leaders of the outdoor environment (o) Seek funding based on projects delivering strategic value and not one-off capital projects 2. Address issue of wild camping in high Mournes, perhaps through providing necklace of formal campsites with basic facilities (tap and compost toilet), at Fofanny, Banns Road, Happy Valley, Annalong, Shannagh-more, Meelmore Lodge and other appropriate sites which do not displace current similar facilities 3. Address car parking issue; investigate options of purchasing additional adjacent land at Carrick Little and Trassey Track, review public transport links and Rambler service Page 49 of 93

50 Low Mournes Development This Plan identifies the following as priority areas for recreation development in the low Mournes: 1. Education, Awareness & Training Education, raising awareness and training about ensuring the protection of the natural environment upon which all outdoor recreation activities depends, remains a key priority in this Action Plan. How the Mournes are used will directly impact on the quality of the environment. The following recommendations have been identified: (a) Consider the introduction of a Pay Back Scheme for the Mournes (financial or time) (b) Promote the principles and implement training for Leave No Trace (c) Continue to include environmental awareness as a priority in training programmes (d) Continue to promote message about responsible use of the outdoors for recreation (e) Ensure raising public awareness about the fragility of the natural environment remains a key agenda item for MORF 2. Forest Parks The public forest estate in Down and Newry and Mourne Council regions has already undergone several improvements to the recreational infrastructure for mountain biking, e.g. Castlewellan and Rostrevor Forest. Plans are already underway to extend this development and include other sites such as Donard Forest, Tollymore, Moneyscalp, Bunkers Hill and Tipperary Wood. As such they have the potential to become key visitor attractions boosting the local economy but also potentially serve the purpose of mitigating increased pressure in the high Mournes whilst still providing an authentic Mournes experience. The recommendations for these sites are - (a) Castlewellan Forest Park renovate and re-purpose buildings, trails, lake and maze, caravan and camping and natural/adventure play facilities for families (b) Tollymore Forest Park renovate and re-purpose buildings, develop trails, improve caravan and camping and develop natural/adventure play facilities for families (c) Rostrevor Forest/Kilbroney Park develop trails and implement recommendations of scoping study 22 (d) Donard Forest develop trails, visitor services and Gondola facility (depending on results of feasibility and impacts study) 23 (e) Bunkers Hill Forest develop walking and cycling trail and natural play facilities for the local community (f) Tipperary Wood develop walking trails and BMX/pump track facility for local community (g) Moneyscalp, Drumkeeragh and Others consider potential future developments 22 Outdoor Recreation NI is currently undertaking a scoping study for Rostrevor/Kilbroney Forest investigating the opportunities for future recreation and tourism development 23 Down District Council is currently undertaking a feasibility study looking at the economic and environmental viability of a Gondola in Donard Forest the recommendations in this study are dependent on the results of this feasibility study. Page 50 of 93

51 Many of the above sites should be developed as activity hubs. 3. Activity Hubs This Plan identified the demand for the development of activity hubs throughout the Mournes specifically at key access nodes: (a) Kilbroney/Rostrevor Forest (b) Castlewellan Forest Park (c) Tollymore Forest Park (d) Donard Forest (e) Silent Valley (f) Tollymore National Outdoor Centre These sites should be developed holistically with enhancements made to recreational trails and visitor services to cater for a wide range of interests, a wide range of user and a wide range of abilities. These hubs represent a method of alleviating the pressure from the uplands yet still providing an authentic Mournes experience in a managed setting. 4. Mourne Coastline The Mourne coastline represents a major untapped resource for walking and water-based activities. Although it is one of the study area s greatest strengths and attractions there is a gap in provision of things to do. As such the coastline should be a focus for future development, not least because it represents another opportunity to draw pressure away from the uplands yet still offer a unique Mournes experience. Opportunities for development are (a) Assess the feasibility and develop a long distance coastal walking trail from Portavogie to Kilkeel (b) Develop lower level coastal walks linking seaside towns to coastal zone (c) Develop/enhance facilities at Newcastle Harbour (d) Investigate opportunities to develop/enhance facilities at: i. Dundrum Bay ii. Mill Bay iii. Newcastle Beach iv. Kilkeel Beach v. Annalong amenity area vi. Bloody Bridge to Newcastle Harbour 5. Water-based activities; sailing, canoeing and kayaking, etc. The study area has an abundance of water based resources including the coastline, loughs, inland lakes and reservoirs and rivers, most of which could be developed/further developed for recreation. This Plan identified a gap in provision in water based activities from sailing, canoeing and kayaking Page 51 of 93

52 to wind surfing and stand up paddleboarding - in the study area and therefore recommends the following sites as opportune for development: (a) Castlewellan Lake variety of water based activities (b) Silent Valley (c) Lough Island Reavy (d) Lough Shannagh (e) Newry Canal (f) Other publically owned sites, e.g. reservoirs 6. Hill Walking & Walking Walking remains the most popular activity participated in the Mournes and so should be sustainability maintained and developed to continue to offer that authentic Mournes experience. The development of walking can be described as an evolving the product with minimal creation of new paths on the ground. The following is recommended through this Plan: (a) Implement the recommendations of the Strategic Path Review in relation to the low level path network (b) Promote and implement Helping the Hills principles and Principles & Standards for Trail Development (c) Maintain and manage the existing low level path network (d) Enhance and develop new low level routes to mitigate current and future pressure on the more remote and summit areas (e) Sustain mid-elevation thorough fares; develop new links between access points which reinforce mid-elevation use (f) Extend the Granite Trail in Donard Forest to take in the south east of the Forest (g) Consider low level walking trail from Drinneevar to Bloody Bridge (h) Establish link between Bloody Bridge path and Donard Forest and Donard Forest to Tollymore Forest Park (creating circular loop linking Donard Park, Trassey Track, Hares Gap, and Brandy Pad) (i) Improve connectivity; consolidate and enhance current product through linkages between existing sites and trails (j) Investigate feasibility of re-opening Silent Valley pipeline as a long distance route from Silent Valley to Newcastle (k) Establish a safe walking route between Newcastle town and Tollymore Forest Park (l) Review and upgrade where necessary the Mourne Way; improve sustainability of key parts to accommodate events and lower elevation use SPR identifies weakness in ability of this route in certain places to sustainably accommodate prolonged heavy recreational use in its current alignment and condition particularly the sections between Rowan Tree River and the col between Rocky Mountain and Tornamrock and the section in the vicinity of Spelga Dam 9pp. 24) Page 52 of 93

53 (m) Review signage in Mournes especially along key access/gateway points in eastern Mournes, e.g. Trassey Track (n) Assess feasibility and develop coastal walking trail from Portavogie to Kilkeel (o) Undertake a feasibility study to develop a walking trail from Finnis to the summit of Slieve Croob along the River Lagan (p) Improve the walking trail from Bloody Bridge to Newcastle to walk on the sea side (q) Investigate opportunities to utilise disused, abandoned railways for new walking/cycling/equestrian routes (r) Investigate and develop where appropriate a link between Castlewellan Forest Park and Slieve Croob utilising a currently derelict railway line (SPR, pp. 39) (s) Better promote the existing Waymarked Ways (t) Maintain existing rights of way (u) Support the assertion of new rights of way and permissive paths 7. Cycling Mountain Biking The Mournes has recently become the premier mountain biking destination in Northern Ireland, courtesy of significant investment from public sector and partnership working between local councils and Forest Service NI. Regarding development of this activity discussion tended to focus more on perfecting the existing infrastructure, extending the trails and improving the visitor services with some debate over the creation of new trail centres. The following opportunities are recommended through this Plan: (a) Extend trails at Castlewellan Forest (b) Extend trails at Rostrevor - downhill, cross country and introduce family trails into the network (c) Rostrevor investigate potential to develop a world class free ride park (d) Develop Tipperary Wood as a local facility pump/bmx track and/or dirt jumps areas (e) Investigate the potential and where feasible/appropriate create journeys or long distance rides throughout Mournes which links existing trail centres i. Link Tollymore and Castlewellan Forest Parks via Mourne Way ii. iii. iv. Link Leitrim Lodge into Rostrevor Connect Castlewellan to Ballyward and on to Banbridge Utilise old pipeline to create route from Slieve Donard to Bloody Bridge v. Utilise old railway track from Murlough to Newcastle as a link route (f) Investigate the potential for the Mourne way to become a rideable route (g) Continue to promote the Mournes as a destination for mountain biking events/races (h) Investigate potential for Donard Forest, Tollymore Forest Park, Big Wood and Mourne Wood as mountain bike trail centres and/or facilities Page 53 of 93

54 Off-Road (Family) Cycling (a) Investigate development of family cycling trail(s) at Silent Valley 8. Canoeing The following opportunities for developing canoeing are recommended through this Plan: (a) Castlewellan Lake i. Enhanced changing, toilet and training facilities ii. Installation of polo and sprint facilities (b) Dundrum Bay Keel Point road i. Construct play wave under arches to work in both directions of tide ii. Construct a turning circle, parking area for vans and trailers iii. Construct a canoe step (c) Newcastle Harbour i. Improve canoe access as part of future harbour improvement plans (d) Upper Bann i. Develop campsite potentially between Ballyroney-Katesbridge or Katesbridge-Corbett ii. Construct additional canoe steps with potential at Hilltown, Ballynagapogge and Ballyroney (e) Annalong Harbour i. Improve canoe access (f) Newry Canal i. Construct canoe steps at Victoria Locks ii. Install canoe access signage (g) South East Coastal Canoe Trail i. Develop campsite; potentially at Green Harbour (h) Carlingford Lough i. Develop canoe trail taking in Greencastle to Greenore to Carlingford, Killowen, Warrenpoint and finishing in Newry ii. Potential campsite development at Tain Holiday Village, Omeath 9. Bouldering The following opportunities have been identified: (a) Develop erosion control measures at key access points at Bloody Bridge (b) Lobby Transport NI on reducing the speed limit on the road at Bloody Bridge (c) Continue to promote the Bloody Bridge Usage Charter to activity providers using the site Page 54 of 93

55 (d) Undertake negotiations with the landowner(s) at Ballagh Bridge with a view to re-opening access for primary school level bouldering 10. Horse Riding The following opportunities have been identified for the development of horse riding: (a) Connect up existing bridle ways, e.g. Drumkeeragh, Slieve Croob, Cratlieve and Slieve Garragh to extend off-road provision (b) Develop trails in Castlewellan Forest Park 11. Orienteering The following opportunities have been identified for the development of orienteering in the study area: (a) Consider the impact of trail development on existing orienteering course and build orienteering re-mapping into trail development costs (b) Re-map Castlewellan Forest Park and Rostrevor Forest (c) Update the map for Slieve Gullion with digital file (d) Consider the potential of Slieve Roosley for mapping 12. Rock Climbing The following opportunities have been identified for climbing: (a) Develop Altnadue Quarry 13. Angling The following opportunities have been identified for angling: (a) Construct disabled access at Castlewellan Lake (b) Support the creation of access for anglers to derelict waters (c) Support the development of tourism based angling (d) Support the development of angling infrastructure and services where appropriate 14. Running The following opportunities have been identified for fell-running: (a) Consider potential solutions to car parking and public transport issues especially on race/event days The following opportunities have also been identified on a site-by-site basis through this Plan: 15. Slieve Croob Page 55 of 93

56 (a) Investigate and implement opportunities for the development of walking, cycling (on-road) and horse riding in Slieve Croob region 16. Silent Valley (a) Investigate and develop further opportunities for cycling and adventure/natural play 17. Lough Island Reavy (a) Consider potential development of water-based activities, e.g. sailing, rowing, windsurfing 18. Leitrim Road Car Park (a) Extend car parking 19. Dree Hill Car Park (a) Consider development of path and signage leading from Dree Hill Car Park 20. Cratlieve Mountain (a) Investigate development of new access with links to Legananny Dolmen and existing access at Windy Gap Pad The Over-Arching Principles Prior to any development taking place, it is recommended that the following be taken into consideration so that the issues which are already a concern in the Mournes are not made worse: (a) Impact on other ecosystem services (b) Impact on natural environment (c) Impact on other recreational activities, e.g. displacement or additionality? (d) Need for project/development; how does it fit with bigger, long term picture? (e) Is it sustainable? Page 56 of 93

57 12. ACTION PLAN Recommendation No. Activity Recommendation Site/Area Actions Delivery Partners Priority Status A. Consider the introduction of a Pay Back Scheme for the Mournes (financial or time) MHT and Others Low B. Promote the principles and implement training for Leave No Trace TNOC, Scouts, DofE, MI, ELB s, Activity Providers High 1 Education, awareness and training Support the development of education and awareness initiatives/programmes/projects which encourage safe and responsible use of the Mournes for recreation C. Continue to include environmental awareness as a priority in training programmes D. Continue to promote message about responsible use of the outdoors for recreation TNOC, ELB s, MI and Others Sport NI, MHT, NIEA, ELB s, Activity Providers, Clubs High High E. Ensure raising public awareness about the fragility of the natural environment remains a key agenda item for MORF MORF High A. Castlewellan Forest Park renovate and re-purpose buildings, trails, lake and maze, caravan and camping and natural/adventure play facilities for families B. Tollymore Forest Park renovate and re-purpose buildings, develop trails, improve caravan and camping and develop natural/adventure play facilities for families 2 Forest Parks Develop the forest parks as key visitor attractions offering a package of activities and experiences with quality trails, activities and services C. Rostrevor Forest/Kilbroney Park develop trails and implement recommendations of scoping study D. Donard Forest develop trails, visitor services and Gondola facility (depending on results of feasibility and impacts study) Local Council(s), FSNI, ORNI, private sector High E. Bunkers Hill Forest develop walking and cycling trail and natural play facilities for the local community F. Tipperary Wood develop walking trails and BMX/pump track facility for local community G. Moneyscalp, Drumkeeragh and Others consider potential future developments Page 57 of 93

58 Recommendation No. Activity Recommendation Site/Area Actions Delivery Partners Priority Status A. Kilbroney/Rostrevor Forest 3 Activity Hubs Develop and promote key, low-level access nodes as activity and information hubs; develop activities, infrastructure, attractions and visitor services B. Castlewellan Forest Park C. Tollymore Forest Park D. Donard Forest E. Silent Valley Local Council(s), FSNI, NI Water, Sport NI, ORNI, private sector Medium F. Tollymore National Outdoor Centre A. Assess the feasibility and develop a long distance coastal walking trail from Portavogie to Kilkeel 4 Mourne Coastline Develop the Mourne coastline to offer a range of land and water based activities with supporting services including signage B. Develop lower level coastal walks linking seaside towns to coastal zone C. Develop/enhance facilities at Newcastle Harbour D. Investigate opportunities to develop/enhance facilities at Dundrum Bay, Mill Bay, Newcastle Beach, Kilkeel Beach, Annalong amenity area and/or Bloody Bridge to Newcastle Harbour Medium 5 Water based; sailing, canoeing, kayaking, wind surfing, etc. Where appropriate develop water-based recreation particularly on publicly owned sites through the development of infrastructure and investment in clubs A. Castlewellan Lake (variety of water based activities) Local Council(s), B. Silent Valley NI Water, DCAL, Loughs Agency, C. Lough Island Reavy Private and public D. Lough Shannagh landowner(s), CANI, RYA, local E. Newry Canal clubs, community F. Other publically owned sites, e.g. surplus reservoir assets groups Low 6 Hill Walking & Walking Maintain, manage, extend and enhance the highelevation trail network Maintain, manage, extend and enhance the low- and mid-elevation trail network A. Implement the recommendations of the Strategic Path Review in relation to the low level path network B. Promote and implement Helping the Hills principles and Principles and Standards for Sustainable Trail Development C. Maintain and manage the existing low level path network D. Enhance and develop new low level routes to mitigate current and future pressure on the more remote and summit areas E. Sustain mid-elevation thorough fares; develop new links between access points which reinforce mid-elevation use MHT and Others MHT and Others Local Council(s), MHT, ORNI and Others High High Page 58 of 93

59 Recommendation No. Activity Recommendation Site/Area Actions Delivery Partners Priority Status F. Extend the Granite Trail in Donard Forest to the south east G. Consider low level trail from Drinneevar to Bloody Bridge Develop link/connecting routes between existing sites and trails Conduct a review of the Mourne Way Review signage and where appropriate develop new signage at key access points Develop coastal and riverside walks Investigate the feasibility of and where appropriate develop disused railways as new route corridors (not limited to walking) Continue to promote the existing waymarked ways and quality walks Protect, maintain and increase rights of way, permissive paths and other access agreements H. Establish link between Bloody Bridge path and Donard Forest and Donard Forest to Tollymore Forest Park (creating circular loop linking Donard Park, Trassey Track, Hares Gap, and Brandy Pad) I. Improve connectivity; consolidate and enhance current product through linkages between existing sites and trails J. Investigate feasibility of re-opening Silent Valley pipeline as a long distance route from Silent Valley to Newcastle K. Establish a safe walking route between Newcastle town and Tollymore Forest Park L. Review and upgrade where necessary the Mourne Way; improve sustainability of key parts for events M. Review signage in Mournes especially along key access/gateway points in eastern Mournes, e.g. Trassey Track N. Assess feasibility of a walking trail from Portavogie to Kilkeel O. Undertake a feasibility study to develop a walking trail from Finnis to the summit of Slieve Croob along the River Lagan P. Improve walking trail from Bloody Bridge to Newcastle to walk on the sea side Q. Investigate opportunities to utilise disused, abandoned railways for new walking/cycling/equestrian routes R. Investigate and develop where appropriate a link between Castlewellan Forest Park and Slieve Croob utilising a currently derelict railway line Local Council(s), MHT, FSNI, Public and Private Landowners, ORNI and Others identified Local Council(s) NIEA, ORNI MHT, ORNI Various Local Council(s), MHT, ORNI, Public and Private landowners, community groups S. Better promote the existing Waymarked Ways Local Council(s), ORNI T. Maintain existing rights of way Local Council(s), U. Support the assertion of new rights of way and permissive paths MHT Low High Low Medium Medium Low High Page 59 of 93

60 Recommendation No. Activity Recommendation Site/Area Actions Delivery Partners Priority Status Develop, enhance and/or extend the trails and/or facilities at existing trail centres A. Extend trails at Castlewellan Forest B. Extend trails at Rostrevor - downhill, cross country and introduce family trails into the network C. Rostrevor investigate feasibility for world class free ride park Local Council(s), FSNI, ORNI, private sector Medium Develop new trail centres and/or facilities where appropriate D. Develop Tipperary Wood as a local facility pump track, BMX track, dirt jumps E. H. Investigate potential of Donard Forest, Tollymore Forest Park, Big Wood and Mourne Wood Local Council(s), FSNI, ORNI, community groups, local clubs Medium F. Investigate the potential and where feasible/appropriate create journeys or long distance rides throughout Mournes which links existing trail centres 7 Mountain Biking Investigate the potential and where feasible and appropriate create journeys or long distance riding routes with links to trail centres i. Link Tollymore and Castlewellan Forests via Mourne Way ii. iii. iv. Link Leitrim Lodge into Rostrevor Connect Castlewellan to Ballyward and on to Banbridge Create route from Slieve Donard to Bloody Bridge Local Council(s), ORNI, FSNI, Public and Private landowners Low v. Utilise old railway to link Murlough and Newcastle G. Investigate potential of Mourne way as a rideable route Continue to promote the Mournes destination for mountain biking events/races H. Continue to promote the Mournes as a destination for mountain biking events/races from local to world class level Local Council(s), NITB, ORNI, Cycling Ulster, Cycling Ireland, private sector, local clubs High A. Castlewellan Lake develop enhanced changing, toilet and training facilities 8 Canoeing Enhance/improve user facilities at existing canoe access points B. Newcastle Harbour improve canoe access as part of future harbour improvement plans C. Dundrum Bay/Keel Point Road construct a turning circle and parking area for vans and trailers D. Annalong Harbour improve canoe access Local Council(s), Private and Public landowners, CANI Medium E. Dundrum Bay/Keel Point Road construct a canoe step Develop new canoe access facilities F. Upper Bann construct additional canoe steps with potential at Hilltown, Ballynagapogge and Ballyroney G. Newry Canal construct canoe steps at Victoria Lock and install canoe access signage Local Council(s), Private and Public landowners, CANI Low Page 60 of 93

61 Recommendation No. Activity Recommendation Site/Area Actions Delivery Partners Priority Status Develop canoe campsite(s) Develop new canoe trail Construct training facilities such as polo and sprint course and play wave H. Upper Bann develop a campsite potentially between Ballyroney and Katesbridge or Katesbridge and Corbett I. SE Coast Canoe Trail develop a campsite potentially at Green Harbour J. Carlingford Lough develop campsite potentially at Tain Holiday Village along new canoe trail K. Carlingford Lough develop new canoe trail taking in Greencastle, Greenore, Carlingford, Killowen, Warrenpoint and Newry Local Council(s), Private and Public landowners, CANI Local Council(s), Private and Public landowners, Loughs Agency, CANI L. Castlewellan Lake install polo and sprint facilities Local Council(s), Private and Public M. Dundrum Bay/Keel Point Road construct a play wave under arches to work in both directions of tide landowners, DCAL, National Trust, CANI Low Low Low 9 Bouldering Manage the Bloody Bridge site A. Develop erosion control measures at key access points at Bloody Bridge B. Lobby Transport NI to reduce the speed limit of road at Bloody Bridge C. Continue to promote the Bloody Bridge Usage Charter to activity providers using the site National Trust, Sport NI, Activity Providers Medium Medium High Re-open access at Ballagh Bridge D. Undertake negotiations with landowner(s) at Ballagh Bridge with a view to re-opening access for primary school level bouldering Landowners, Sport NI Medium 10 Horse Riding Develop new and existing equestrian trails Connect up and extend existing bridleways to extend off-road riding provision A. Connect up existing bridle ways, e.g. Drumkeeragh, Slieve Croob, Cratlieve and Slieve Garragh to extend off-road provision Local Council(s), FSNI, BHS B. Develop trails in Castlewellan Forest Park Local Council(s), BHS, MHT, Landowners Low Low Page 61 of 93

62 Recommendation No. Activity Recommendation Site/Area Actions Delivery Partners Priority Status 11 Orienteering Re-map existing sites A. Consider the impact of trail development on existing orienteering courses and add re-mapping into trail development costs B. Re-map Castlewellan Forest Park and Rostrevor Forest C. Update the map for Slieve Gullion with digital file NIO, FSNI Create maps for new sites D. Consider the potential of Slieve Roosley for mapping NIO, Landowners Medium High 12 Rock Climbing Develop climbing facilities A. Develop climbing facilities at Altnadue Quarry Sport NI Low Construct disabled angling access facilities A. Construct disabled access at Castlewellan Lake DCAL Medium 13 Angling Support the development of derelict waters B. Support the creation of access for anglers to derelict waters Various Medium Support the development of tourism based angling C. Support the development of tourism based angling Various Low Support the development of angling infrastructure and services where appropriate D. Support the development of angling infrastructure and services where appropriate Various Low 14 Fell running Consider and pilot solutions to car parking and public transport issues identified A. Consider potential solutions to car parking and public transport issues especially on race/event days MHT, NIFRA, Translink, Landowners High 15. Slieve Croob - investigate opportunities for the development of walking, cycling (on-road) and horse riding in Slieve Croob region Site-based Investigate and where appropriate develop opportunities for access and recreation development, including walking, cycling and equestrian trails, signage, play and water based activities 16. Silent Valley - Investigate and develop further opportunities for cycling and adventure/natural play 17. Lough Island Reavy - Consider potential development of waterbased activities, e.g. sailing, rowing, windsurfing 18. Leitrim Road Car Park extend car parking 19. Dree Hill Car Park consider path development and signage Local Council(s), FSNI, Private and Public Landowners, ORNI, governing bodies, local clubs, private sector, community groups Low 20. Cratlieve Mountain investigate access development with links to Legananny Dolmen and existing access at Windy Gap Pad Page 62 of 93

63 Recommendation No. Activity Recommendation Site/Area Actions Delivery Partners Priority Status General Value of Recreation Camping Car Parking Management and Maintenance Planning Development Undertake a feasibility study to identify the social and economic value of outdoor recreation in the Mournes Investigate the potential to develop a necklace of formal campsites with basic facilities in the Mournes, where appropriate, i.e. minimal impact on environment and existing businesses Investigate options for additional parking and where appropriate support the development of enhancing parking capacity at key access nodes, e.g. Trassey Track and Carrick Little Sport NI, MHT, NIEA and Others MHT, Private and Public landowners, Duke of Edinburgh, private sector MHT, Private and Public landowners Continue to support the work of Mourne Heritage Trust and invest in recreation management programmes All High Undertake and promote a total ecosystems approach to the planning of recreation development in the Mournes All High Medium High High Fig. 7 Mourne Outdoor Recreation Action Plan Page 63 of 93

64 13. CONCLUSIONS This report gives a broad summary of the current provision and management of outdoor recreation within the Mournes and Slieve Croob area. It identifies the geographical gaps in provision, outlines the most popular activities and highlights the priorities for development over the next 5-10 years. With regard to future priority this report found that the management of existing provision is equally weighted against the development of new product and that new development should be restricted to the lower levels. To reflect this distinction has been made between the upper and lower Mournes. In summary, future development in the Mournes should: 1. Adopt a no development approach to the upland areas focus on maintenance and management of the existing recreational trail network as per the 2012 Strategic Path Review 2. Focus on new access and trails in low to mid level elevations particularly 3. Create activity hubs at key access nodes to concentrate visitor pressure within a defined area where prescribed management can be implemented yet visitors still achieve the Mournes experience 4. Concentrate new development along coastline, inland lakes and reservoirs, public forest estate and other public land sites 5. Prioritise the creation of links which connect existing sites and trails, e.g. abandoned railways and pipelines, Donard Forest and Tollymore Forest Park However prior to any development taking place the following over-arching principles should be taken into account to ensure that current issues are not exacerbated or displaced by development: (a) The impact on other ecosystem services (b) The impact on natural environment (c) The impact on other recreational activities, e.g. displacement or additionality? (d) The need for project/development; how does it fit with bigger, long term picture? (e) Is it sustainable? Page 64 of 93

65 14. OUTDOOR RECREATION MAPS Page 65 of 93

66 Fig. 8 Activity Providers Page 66 of 93

67 Fig. 9 Current Provision - Angling Page 67 of 93

68 Fig. 10 Current Provision - Canoeing Page 68 of 93

69 Fig. 11 Current Provision - Climbing Page 69 of 93

70 Fig. 12 Current Provision - Cycling Page 70 of 93

71 Fig. 13 Current Provision - Mountain Biking Page 71 of 93

72 Fig. 14 Current Provision - Orienteering Page 72 of 93

73 Fig. 15 Current Provision - All Air Activities Page 73 of 93

74 Fig. 16 Future Development - Site Based Page 74 of 93

75 Fig. 17 Future Development - Activity Based Page 75 of 93

76 15. BIBLIOGRAPHY Reports & Strategies - CAAN (2007) Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Access Study. - Dafydd Davis (2012) The Mournes & Slieve Croob Strategic Path Review. - DCAL, Sport NI, NIEA and NITB (2013) Our Great Outdoors The Outdoor Recreation Action Plan for Northern Ireland - DCAL, Sport NI, NITB & Loughs Agency (2014) A Strategic Review of Angling in Northern Ireland. - Department of Enterprise, Trade & Investment (2010) A Draft Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland to FSNI (2009) A Strategy to Develop the Recreational and Social Use of Our Forests. - KPMG (2012) Assessment of the Existing and Potential Tourism Development Opportunities Available from Northern Ireland Forests. - NITB (2013) Creating Experiences: A Toolkit for the NI Tourism Industry - NITB (2012) Northern Ireland Tourism Priorities for Growth - NI Water (2012) Access and Recreation Policy Websites Page 76 of 93

77 16. APPENDIX Terms of Reference This Plan sets out to: detail and GIS map the nature and extent of current outdoor recreation provision in the Mournes AONB region including; o o o o all land, air and water-based activities whether these take place on public and private land both area and site-specific facilities PRoW and access agreements detail and GIS map the current land management bodies involved in outdoor recreation provision in the area - private, public, community, FSNI, Water Service, charitable trusts, etc. detail and GIS map all environmental designations across the region collate all available and relevant monitoring information about current outdoor recreation use/participation in the region outline the relevant context of outdoor recreation within the area, against what is happening at a regional and national level, detailing the current situation and any future development plans conduct consultation with all relevant stakeholders including as a minimum the MORF, Mourne Heritage Trust and local Council officers and others where appropriate including the local community, tourism and business sector, public bodies, statutory organisations, national governing bodies, user groups and private sector to discuss their aspirations for future development of the Mournes where appropriate, use the results of any other relevant consultation exercises which have been undertaken identify the principle management issues (challenges/barriers) (local, regional and national) affecting the development and/or management of outdoor recreation in the Mournes complete a SWOT analysis for the Mournes AONB region identify the future opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Mournes, both regional and sitespecific including any natural activity hubs prioritise areas for the growth and/or management of outdoor recreation regional and site specific produce a 5-10 year Action Plan outlining delivery partners The Plan will also take account of the following: 1. the advanced nature of recreation in the Mournes and issues linked to high visitor pressure 2. the specific nature of certain sites and any proposed activities and (where practicable) seek to deliver improved accessibility for people with disabilities, and 3. the consideration of the value of ecosystem services Page 77 of 93

78 16.2. Consultation Questionnaire MOURNE OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN ACTIVITY PROVIDER QUESTIONNAIRE Activity Provider: Date: IMPORTANT: To select a box, right click on the box, select Properties and choose Checked 1. What outdoor recreation activities do you provide? Land-Based Water-Based Air-Based Archery Angling - Coarse Model Flying Adventure Racing Angling Game Gliding Boot camps Boat cruises Hang Gliding Bushcraft Canoeing Paragliding Clay pigeon shooting Kayaking Micro light Climbing Slalom Sky diving Fell-running SUP Parachuting Cycling On road Cycling Mountain biking High Ropes/Ziplines Horse riding Rowing Sailing Water skiing/wakeboarding Hovercrafting Mountain Boarding Mountaineering Orienteering Segway Other Please specify: Walking/Rambling Zorbing Page 78 of 93

79 2. Are your activities: Site Based Go to Q4 Mobile Go to Q 3 Both Go to Q 3 3. What areas/sites do you use? And for what activities? Site/Area: _E.g. Davagh Forest Activity(s):_Mountain Biking Permit/License/Permission required: Yes No Site/Area: Activity(s): Permit/License/Permission required: Yes No Site/Area: Activity(s): Permit/License/Permission required: Yes No Site/Area: Activity(s): Permit/License/Permission required: Yes No Site/Area: Activity(s): Permit/License/Permission required: Yes No Site/Area: Activity(s): Permit/License/Permission required: Yes No Page 79 of 93

80 4. In your opinion, what are the opportunities for development? Please give details of specific activities and or specific areas/sites you think have potential to enhance the activity offering in the Sperrins. 5. In your opinion, what are the barriers or issues which may affect the growth of outdoor recreation or the activities mentioned above? 6. Can we contact you to discuss this questionnaire further? Yes No If Yes, please provide: Contact Name: Telephone No: THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO COMPLETE THIS SURVEY OutdoorNI.com WalkNI.com MountainbikeNI.com CycleNI.com CanoeNI.com BeachNI.com Page 80 of 93

81 16.3. Consultation Poster Page 81 of 93