A 200,000 funding allocation for Dartrey Forest in Monaghan means a new boardwalk will be developed from Rathcurry to Erica's fairy forest.
Councillor Richard Truell told a recent meeting of Ballybay/Clones Municipal District that the funding was a welcome development and there was no reason to believe that the forest couldn't be every bit as good as Rossmore Forest Park outside Monaghan town.
He said he hoped these latest developments were the 'start of things to come' for Dartrey Forest, which he added, is not being utilised to its full potential.
The local area representative said there was a huge history to the forest and highlighted how it was one of the most historical sites in Co Monaghan.
Councillor Truell also added that the forest needed 'more services' to attract visitors and pointed to the importance of keeping fingers 'on the pulse' so that as much funding as possible could be accessed.
He also highlighted how Dartrey Forest was every bit as good as Rossmore Park, which, Truell added, was a wonderful facility for the people of Monaghan.
