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Plans for a new community walking trail in Hilltown have taken a significant step forward after Newry, Mourne and Down District Council agreed to advance the project to planning stage.
The recommendation to appoint a consultant to progress the project was agreed at a meeting of the Council's Active and Healthy Communities Committee on Monday, 16 February, though the decision will need to be formally ratified when the full Council meets next month.
Council Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell welcomed the move, saying: "Investing in community trails produces many benefits for people of all ages. Community trails are safe and provide an opportunity for families and residents to improve their health by getting out in the fresh air and exercising. We are very fortunate to have a number of scenic walking trails across the district which are extremely popular."
The proposed Hilltown trail is designed to provide safe off-road walking for local people, encourage physical activity and improve connectivity and amenity in the area. Significantly, it will also integrate with planned works at Clonduff GAC, with Cllr Campbell noting that the trail will complement that investment and give both village residents and visitors a valuable new community asset.
Community trails of this kind are aimed at improving connectivity within villages and the surrounding countryside, opening up safe and accessible routes for people of all ages and abilities. If ratified by the full Council, the appointment of a consultant will be the next step in turning the Hilltown proposal into a reality.
