We are delighted to have recently completed works to upgrade walking trails within Bracknamuckley Forest, Portglenone for Local authority client Mid & East Antrim Borough Council.
The purpose of the project was to create a 2.6km network of safe, way marked, off-road community walking trails within Bracknamuckley Forest. This involved the upgrade of existing Forest Service Northern Ireland access trails. These trails will accommodate a wide range of users and provide for intergenerational use. Works were carried out in an environmentally sensitive manner in order to avoid disturbing local wildlife / priority species. A signage and way finding suite of furniture will be included within the project to assist with orientation of visitors. The contract also included the supply and installation of new welcome and way mark signage.
The Site:
Bracknamuckley Forest is a small (circa 16 hectares) commercial plantation just north of Portglenone, currently under the management of Forest Service Northern Ireland (FSNI). Refer to existing conditions and site location map drawings. It is bordered by the lower River Bann to the West, the Gortgole Road to the East and farmland to the North and South. There are currently two access points from the Gortgole Road and a canoe step access point from the River Bann. The existing trail network consists of two Forest Service access roads running perpendicular to the road and the river, in addition to unsanctioned walking trails running through the forest and along the river. The ground conditions appear to be relatively good away from the river and drainage ditches. Vegetation cover consists of a mix of relatively mature trees.