Projects / 2016–2017
NeighbourWood Scheme
Renewing the Woods for Future Generations
The NeighbourWood Scheme marked one of the most significant milestones in the modern history of Dunmore East Woods.
Following the widespread damage caused by Storm Darwin in 2014, the Trust recognised that the woodland required more than routine maintenance. Trees had been damaged, paths required improvement and a long-term approach was needed to ensure the woodland remained safe, healthy and resilient while protecting its rich biodiversity.
Building on the recommendations of the 2015 Biodiversity Management Plan, the Trust secured funding of €82,423.65 through the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s NeighbourWood Scheme. This investment enabled one of the largest conservation and improvement projects undertaken since the Woods were placed in trust in 1924.
More than simply repairing storm damage, the project renewed the woodland for future generations.
Why was it needed?
Storm Darwin highlighted the challenges of managing a mature woodland. Professional ecological and forestry assessments identified the need to:
- Improve the long-term health and resilience of the woodland.
- Remove dangerous and storm-damaged trees.
- Encourage natural woodland regeneration.
- Protect and enhance wildlife habitats.
- Improve accessibility for visitors.
- Create a sustainable framework for future woodland management.
The project was designed not only to restore the woodland but to ensure it could continue to be enjoyed safely while retaining its natural character.
What was delivered?
The NeighbourWood Scheme delivered lasting improvements throughout the Woods, including:
- Professional woodland management and conservation works.
- Removal of dangerous and storm-damaged trees.
- Substantial native tree planting and natural regeneration.
- Improved woodland paths and walking routes.
- New and enhanced woodland entrances.
- Interpretive signage highlighting the woodland’s history and ecology.
- Improved accessibility for visitors.
- Habitat enhancement for birds, mammals and other wildlife.
- Opportunities for outdoor learning and environmental education.
Every aspect of the project balanced environmental conservation with public enjoyment.
A Woodland for the Community
The NeighbourWood Scheme was about much more than woodland management.
It strengthened the connection between the Woods and the community. Improved access encouraged more people to explore the woodland, schools embraced it as an outdoor classroom, and visitors gained a greater appreciation of its wildlife, heritage and spectacular coastal setting.
The official opening brought together representatives of the Trust, the Department of Agriculture, Waterford City & County Council, Forestry Services Ltd., members of the local community and the Marquis of Waterford’s family — a fitting celebration of a project that honoured both the woodland’s heritage and its future.
Lasting Legacy
The impact of the NeighbourWood Scheme can still be seen throughout the Woods today.
Many of the entrances, pathways, interpretation panels and conservation measures introduced during the project continue to benefit visitors and wildlife alike.
More importantly, the project established a long-term approach to woodland stewardship based on professional ecological advice, sustainable management and respect for the woodland’s natural character.
The success of the scheme also led to national recognition, with the Trust receiving the RDS Community Woodland Award in 2017 for its outstanding contribution to woodland conservation and community engagement.
More than a restoration project, the NeighbourWood Scheme reaffirmed the vision established by the Trust’s founders in 1924: to protect and enhance the Woods so they can be enjoyed by generations to come.