The delivery of a Narnia trail in Kilbroney Park has moved a step closer after it was confirmed that the Heritage Lottery Fund support for the project has been secured. In a statement on the matter Newry and Mourne District Council said that the team behind the project (the Mourne Heritage Trust and Council) is now hoping to secure match funding that would ensure its delivery. The landscape of CS Lewis’ 1950’s masterpiece ‘The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe’ is thought to be heavily influenced by the author’s regular visits to the locality and as such it is hoped a themed trail on his greatest work would prove a major attraction. The 2km trail would cost in the region of £70K would include the Wardrobe, water pools, the Fairy Glen, a dancing lawn (activity space), Aslan’s Table (picnic area) and citadel (lookout tower). The council statement said: “HLF in funding in place waiting confirmation of match funding, project development, project development is ongoing.” Meanwhile the council has also confirmed that work on the new mountain bike trails at Kilbroney are developing ahead of schedule with discussions on how best to promote the new facility taking place. “Contract progressing well and ahead of schedule at the moment with Outdoor Recreation NI and various funders on marketing of facilities and the development of the operational plan for the facility,” The statement read. The facility will be used as a competition venue for the 2013 World Police and fire Games. The council statement added that the new Tone Zone over 50’s exercise facility which was opened last month by former Irish President Mary McAleese is being “extensively used.’
Newry Reporter
1st August 2012
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