By Dan Walsh at Courtown Woods
The pungent aroma of wild garlic was palpable, green foliage fought off the effects of torrential showers acting as natures protector, and nothing could prevent the exuberance of well-being or dampen the unequivocal and overwhelming support for 40 acres of protected woodlands, known locally as Courtown Woods, to be vested in public ownership. Public support has spoken loudly in one voice.
They labelled it a Woodland Appreciation Day calling on people to arrive at whatever time suited them, be it morning or afternoon, and to ensure a safe social distance of two metres apart.
While strictly adhering to Covid-19 guidelines and protocols the slogan was “We can’t march together but we can march individually!” Despite torrential showers there was a steady flow of walkers through the woods all day.
A spokesperson for the organisers, Protect Courtown Woods said they are delighted with the public turnout and large numbers signed a petition that will be presented to Wexford County Council and councillors and Dail Deputies, and members of Wexford County Council are called upon for their support. Stickers and leaflets were distributed.
“We are asking for your urgent support to halt this sale of the Woods, request that Wexford County Council confirm full protection of Courtown Woods from further development and ensure that ownership of the Woods remain within the community,” it stated.
It is alleged that Courtown Woods is in the final stages of being sold to a private developer.
The matter was briefly discussed at this month’s meeting of Wexford County Council, however, members agreed to defer the matter to the next meeting of Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council for further discussion and a vote is expected to take place. That meeting takes place on Tuesday.
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