By 
The opening of 13km of “exhilarating” new mountain bike trails at Gortin Glens has completed the first phase of the £1m redevelopment of the popular forest park.
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs have each committed £500,000 towards the scheme.
FODC chairwoman, Diana Armstrong, said, “I am delighted to see the completion of Phase One of the Gortin Glen Forest Park Development Plan with the opening of these exhilarating trails. The council is pleased to be working with DAERA to transform Gortin Glen Forest Park into a destination which has appeal for all the family.
“I would like to thank all those involved in the development works to date and I hope that the new developments bring much enjoyment to all those visiting the park.”
Red and blue graded trails start from the two main car parks at the park. After a challenging climb, bikers are rewarded with superb vistas whether at the top of Keelan’s Chase (blue) or the Mountain Trail (red), before enjoying the thrill of the berms and jerms all the way back to the visitor hub area.
DAERA Minister, Edwin Poots, added, “This project at Gortin Glen Forest Park is another excellent example of how working in partnership can deliver real benefits for the local community and help make the district a great place to live, work and visit.”
Gortin Glen is open throughout the year and is managed and maintained by FODC. Visitors are encouraged to park in the new main car park (formerly the overflow car park) and travel the short walk back over the new footbridge.
Parking for blue badge holders has been made available adjacent to the playpark. Please note a one-way system continues to be in operation.
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has entered into a 20-year lease agreement with Forest Service NI in relation to the management of recreational areas within the forest park.
Forest Service NI continues to manage all other aspects of the forest in relation to the extraction of timber.
