A controversial plan to cut a road through a stunning forested area in Inishowen which may have damaged the natural habitat of red squirrels has been put on the back burner.
Concerned residents felt that plans to put a road through Lis na Gra in Muff was a step too far.
The residents including Margaret McDaid, councillor Jack Murray and Bren Whelan later described the meeting as very positive.
Also in attendance were the Coillte engineer with responsibility for the proposed road, as well as a Coillte forestry expert with specific responsibility for the management of Lis na Gra.
Mr Whelan described the meeting as constructive and positive.
He said “We voiced our concerns about the proposed road and discussed alternatives in a very constructive manner.
“I am delighted to say that we have now received a verbal agreement from the Coillte engineer to reconsider their plan and to find another route into harvest their Sitka spruce crop,” he said.
A planned public meeting to be held on December 1st, will go ahead and at this point it is hoped to clarify Coillte’s plans.
Many thanks to the local community, the wider community (2,500 signatures!) the wildlife groups, Colin Stafford-Johnston, John Murray/Crossing the Line Films, local press and also thanks to Margaret & Jack.
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