Historic trees chopped down as part of plans to widen Omagh road

DOZENS of historic trees along the Gortin Road in Omagh were cut down over the weekend.

Starting on Friday, Department for Infrastructure (DFI) workers began removing the trees by Grange Park, some believed to be around 200-years-old.

The removal is part of a road-widening scheme ahead of the expected traffic increase due to the Strule Shared Education Campus.

John News, director of Environment and Place, told Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s Environmental Services Committee last month that discussions are underway with the DFI to explore the possibility of reusing some of the timber from the felled trees.

Mr News said that the timber could be used for public art, sculptures, or street furniture to be placed around the Strule Education Campus and Grange Park.

In addition to the tree removal on the Grange Park side of the road, the scheme will include the removal of a sculpture, the archway welcoming visitors to the Omagh park, and outdoor gym equipment.

As part of the widening project, the DFI plans to plant 20-30 new trees, selected for their suitability to the local environment, similar to those that ‘thrive’ in cities like Dublin and London.

The road widening scheme aims to improve access for the approximately 4,000 students expected to attend the Strule Shared Education Campus once it opens.