The 2km circular nature trail will allow visitors and locals, young and old of all abilities to get close to nature in the scenic setting of the Mourne Mountains. The trail leaves from the visitors' car park and follows the route of the old railway line which was built during the construction of the Silent Valley reservoir. It then crosses the Kilkeel River via a footbridge leading the visitor through a wooded river valley before entering a heather-clad landscape.
Designed in line with the principles of ‘Access for All’, the trail is largely level, well surfaced and is fully wheelchair and buggy accessible.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister for Regional Development, Conor Murphy said: “I welcome the opportunity to be at the launch of this nature trail today, in the surroundings of the beautiful Mourne Mountains. Given that the Silent Valley is situated in a European Special Area of Conservation, it is fitting to see that NI Water and the Mourne Heritage Trust have been working closely together, to maintain this natural habitat, and to improve the visitor experience at Silent Valley.”
Chris Mellor, Northern Ireland Water’s Chairman and Chief Executive added: “Silent Valley is a real asset to the Co Down area and the opening of this nature trail shows our commitment to encouraging visitors to experience first hand the site’s unique indigenous wildlife.
“The trail also provides a strong link with Silent Valley’s fascinating history as the first reservoir to supply fresh, clean drinking water to Co Down and the greater Belfast area. Along the route visitors can enjoy the native woodlands, examine a traditional Mourne dry stone wall, and through following the railway, learn more about the construction of the Silent Valley reservoir and dams.”
The Silent Valley Nature Trail was funded by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Newry & Mourne District Council, Landfill Communities Fund and Northern Ireland Environment Agency.
This nature trail is an example of the close working relationship between Northern Ireland Water and the Mourne Heritage Trust (MHT).
The park is open daily 10:00 until 18:30 (May to September) and 10:00 until 16:00 (October to April). For further information please contact the Waterline on 08457 440088 or logon to the Northern Ireland Water website
Notes to Editors:
- Media queries to DRD Press Office on 028 9054 0887 or NI Water Press Office on 028 9035 4710 or email press.office@niwater.com. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
