A First World War Wood for Northern Ireland

Part of the Woodland Trust’s Centenary Woods project, this will be one of four flagship woods created throughout the UK to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the First World War. 

Land in the heart of the beautiful Faughan Valley in County Londonderry is earmarked to become Northern Ireland’s jewel in the crown.  The 21-hectare (53-acre) site stretches alongside the River Faughan, just off the Glenshane Road.

The conservation charity is now inviting members of the public to find out more about plans for the Centenary Wood.

Gregor Fulton, operations manager with the Woodland Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be at this stage.  This is an excellent opportunity for everyone to learn about our plans, ask questions and offer ideas; a chance to become actively involved.

“The new wood will be a living, lasting tribute to the people from the island of Ireland who served in, or were affected by, the First World War.  A special memorial area, possibly by the banks of the tranquil river, will be a place for quiet reflection; while the planting of thousands of native saplings will provide a thriving habitat for the valley’s precious and vulnerable wildlife.” 

The meeting will be held on Wednesday 30 July, 7pm to 9pm. The venue is Beech Hill Country House Hotel, 32 Ardmore Road, Londonderry, BT47 3QP.  Light refreshments will be provided and booking in advance is preferred.  Please contact the Woodland Trust on 028 9127 5787 or email [email protected]

To help transform this land into Northern Ireland’s Centenary Wood please visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/fwwni

The site’s purchase has been assisted by Northern Ireland Environment Agency, a number of charitable trusts and foundations, and the generosity of individual donors.  Sainsbury’s will be partnering the Woodland Trust to deliver the Centenary Woods project.