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Students and tutors from CAFRE and Teagasc recently collaborated with Castlewellan Forest Park staff to undertake maintenance of the park's Peace Maze.
The contingent of 30 students and staff got a tour of the park and arboretum by former CAFRE students and Head Gardener, Alwyn Sinnamon.
The cross-border initiative was facilitated by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and spearheaded by the educational leaders of both institutions with the park's internationally acclaimed arboretum, one of the highlights of the visit.
Speaking about the initiative Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne, said “As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Peace Maze, it is appropriate that this cross-border group of students and staff have come together to preserve the maze, which embodies the harmony that has emerged across the island of Ireland since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. The maze itself was a collaborative effort involving 4,000 schoolchildren in its design, and we are pleased that it continues to be enjoyed by visitors to the district on a daily basis. We are honoured that Castlewellan Forest Park has been selected for this inaugural collaborative educational excursion between the two horticulture colleges.”
The Peace Maze was established between 1999 and 2001 and comprises 6,000 yew trees, many of which were planted by individuals from various parts of Northern Ireland. The maze spans 2.7 acres (11,000 square meters) with a hedge length exceeding 2 miles (3,550 meters) and a path length of 3,147 meters, which presents a significant management challenge. The students were provided with an overview of the historical significance of the Peace Maze and subsequently engaged in mixed teams to undertake maintenance tasks, including the removal of brambles and weeding.
Restoration
The Castlewellan arboretum along with the Grange buildings are undergoing a significant restoration and renovation project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund with the completion planned for September 2025.
The students enjoyed a tour of the site by Aidan and Marc, former CAFRE students who trained at the arboretum as placement students and subsequently secured fixed-term contracts.
Head Gardener, Alwyn Sinnamon, expressed, “We currently have four degree students completing their work placements at the Annesley Walled Gardens. It is imperative that we continue to educate the public about the significance of Castlewellan Forest Park. It is always a pleasure to showcase our unique collection to the next generation of horticulturalists and engage in discussions regarding its ongoing care.”
Volunteering opportunities are available for individuals of all abilities to contribute to the maintenance of the magnificent trees and plants at Castlewellan. Those interested in volunteering for the maze or other aspects of the arboretum can register their interest at www.visitmournemountains.co.uk
