Public Feedback Sought On Future Of Land Up For Sale Near Glen Of The Downs

Approximately 200 acres of land in Delgany between the Glen of the Downs and Kindlestown Forest has been put up for sale with Deputy Jennifer Whitmore launching an online petition calling on the Government to purchase this land.

The petition has already received great public support from Wicklow residents, with over 3,500 signatures.

“The Glen of the Downs woodland is a national treasure and holds a very special place in the hearts of people here in Wicklow. Unfortunately, we have seen the vibrancy and health of the forest decline in recent years because of several factors. The purchase of these 197 acres offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to nurture this ancient woodland and allow it to naturally regenerate and join up with Kindlestown Forest, effectively doubling the size of the Glen of the Downs,” commented Ms Whitmore.

“There has been huge positivity from the public in response to this proposal and, in particular from people living in Wicklow. People here understand the importance and ecological significance of this woodland and they want a bigger and better Glen of the Downs for future generations to enjoy,” added Deputy Whitmore, who is the Social Democrats spokesperson for Climate and Biodiversity.

“This is an area that I and many Wicklow residents feel passionately about, and I have previously spoken in the Dáil about the need for the Glen of the Downs to be expanded. Last year I met with the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Coillte, encouraging them to explore the possibility of a partnership to allow the Glen of the Downs naturally regenerate and join up with Kindlestown Forest. Both organisations were open to this proposal and responded positively to the suggestion of this joint project,” explained Ms Whitmore.

“€3.5 billion is being set aside by the Government in a Climate and Nature Fund for projects like this. The purchase of this land and expansion of the Glen of the Downs will also help us as a country in reaching the binding targets that we have committed to under the EU’s Nature Restoration Law. This proposal would be a win for Ireland, a win for Wicklow and a win for nature,” added Deputy Whitmore.

Deputy Whitmore’s petition can be found online here