Castlegrove woods is based in the community of Kilconly and has been a much-used recreational facility by local community but at the same time a hidden gem to those who pass by it regularly. In 2017 as part of phase1 efforts were made to make the facilities more accessible and with the support of Coillte, Sean Canney TD for then OPW work commenced within Castlegrove woods. Coillte and their team cleared back the vegetation and opened a parking area within the woods. Also, a safety barrier was erected restricting vehicles from entering the woods enabling a safe passage for those who walk the woods daily. Coillte cleared back an area beyond the Castle allowing users to park in a safe and secure zone. At the same time OPW erected new fencing around the Castle and erected fencing that can be entered from the road side by users, the council also repaired the entrance road by filling the potholes etc. Funding has also been received to repair the gate house at the entrance from the heritage society. Works in Castlegrove woods is project taken on by Kilconly Community Development Committee and members involved are made up from separate groups within the Parish that have a keen interest in developing the facilities for both Recreational , Historical and Tourism . Also on the team is Johnny Higgins who is local conservation officer and been involved in successful projects like the one close by in Knockma ,Belclare Co.Galway. Castlegrove Woods face book page was also set up and as a result the footfall increase as people became more aware of this hidden gem. The facility is much favoured among the elderly as its of a flat terrain and safe place to walk. Check out https://www.facebook.com/castlegrovewoods/ for more info.
Phase 2 now consists of upgrading of all the walkways to a grade that is suitable for wheelchair accesability. It also incorporates the extensions of the car parking area and erection of post and rail barriers. Signage and seating will alos be installed and the clearing back / unveiling of a frontal view of the ruins of castlegrove house creating a viewing area for all to see. We are also working closly with the National Parks and Wildlife Services to see if they can accomadate a showroom / heritage centre for us to display all the artifacts that had resureected during our 1916 commeration. We plan to have phase one near completed by July next year in time for the centenery aniversary of the burning of the house.
Phase 3 will then be brought into the equation which will involve the inland fisheries and local Gun / Fishing club . To date the club has stocked the woods with deer and are willing to get on board with stocking the adjacent lake with fish and fowl for all to enjoy. The extension of roads and addition of viewing/fishing stands will also be incorporated here.
Phase 4 will look beyond the grounds of castlegrove woods and bring in walkways though our adjacent road network and bogs to experience all the flora and fauna that is there to be enjoyed.
