2026–2027
Lacey’s Wood Trail
An existing informal path through Lacey’s Wood will be upgraded to a 322-metre Grade 3 accessible trail, with boardwalk, drainage, seating and interpretation.
Projects
For over 100 years the trustees have honoured the spirit of the indenture, and the Trust remains committed to continuing this effort for the enjoyment of future generations.
The projects below show how that commitment has taken shape in recent years — from the clean-up after Storm Darwin and the ecological planning that followed it, to new paths, restored entrances, native planting and new places to sit, play and enjoy the outdoors. Much of this work has been carried out by volunteers, supported by the local community, Dunmore East Tidy Towns, Waterford City & County Council, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, The Heritage Council and many others.
Planned Projects
Work currently in preparation or under way.
Past Projects
Completed work in the woods and park, most recent first.
2024
Park Bench Improvements
New timber seating fitted to the Park’s familiar concrete benches — crafted and fitted free of charge by the local Amish-Mennonite community.
2024
Woodland Path Improvement Programme
Approximately 3.5 kilometres of woodland path drained, widened, repaired and resurfaced — fully funded by the Trust.
2023
Pétanque Playing Area
A dedicated boules area created and funded by local pétanque players — open to everyone, from regulars to complete beginners.
2023
Boundary Planting & Viewpoint Restoration
Salt-tolerant trees and shrubs planted to reinforce the boundary of The Lookout Garden while keeping the panoramic views over Dunmore Bay open.
2019–2021
Entrance Repairs
Historic stone walls and gate pillars at Coxtown Hill and Cuckaloo Hill restored by local stonemasons using traditional dry-stone techniques.
2016–2017
NeighbourWood Scheme
A €82,423.65 investment through the Department of Agriculture — the largest conservation project since the Woods were placed in trust in 1924.
2015
Community Tree Planting Initiative
Around 700 native trees, donated by Coillte, planted by volunteers of all ages over community planting days in March and May.
2015
Biodiversity Management Plan
The first detailed ecological assessment of the Woods, setting out a “close to nature” framework that still guides every conservation decision today.
2014–2015
Storm Darwin Clean-Up
Hundreds of trees came down in the February 2014 storm. Trustees and volunteers spent months clearing the woodland and reopening the paths.
Awards & Recognition
Recognition for the work of the Trust’s volunteers and partners.
2017
RDS Community Woodland Award
National recognition as Runner-Up in the RDS Community Woodland Awards, following the NeighbourWood Scheme and the recovery from Storm Darwin.
2015
Waterford Community & Voluntary Award
The Trust was honoured in the Arts, Culture & Heritage category, recognising decades of voluntary work caring for the Woods and Park.