News Release
Thursday 13th August 2026
Lisburn Environmental Partnership Puts Down Roots as Ministers see Growth in Action at Dagger Wood!
Translink has welcomed Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins and Minister for Agriculture Environment, and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir to Dagger Wood, near Lisburn today (13th August) to learn more about how Translink is working with Lisburn and District Scouts and the Woodland Trust to create native woodland spaces.
Dagger Wood was identified for native woodland creation following land acquisition in 2019. The tree planting took place in 2022/2023, forming part of Translink’s Tree Management Programme and biodiversity commitments. In total, 15,000 native saplings were planted consisting of eight native tree species.
This is one of a number of tree planting projects around the Translink rail network, which has witnessed the planting of more than 50,000 native trees over the last few years.
The woodland creation at Dagger Wood was delivered by Translink in collaboration with environmental partners including The Woodland Trust and Lisburn and District Scout Association.
This is a long‑term collaboration between Translink and Lisburn and District Scouts, providing managed access to Translink‑owned land at Dagger Wood, Lisburn, for outdoor learning and community use.
The initiative shows how Translink is delivering its Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2030, embedding biodiversity, climate and social value into the transport estate. It represents a significant example of habitat expansion and re-connection, as the site is adjacent to two existing woodlands (15 acres) owned by the Lisburn and District Scout Association.
Liz Kimmins MLA, Minister for Infrastructure, said:
“This project is a fine example of partnership working between government and local groups to create a better environment for communities to enjoy now and for future generations.
‘‘It is fantastic to see young people like the Lisburn Scouts take such an interest in climate and biodiversity.
‘‘As we continue to invest in sustainable transport infrastructure across the north, it is important that we also invest in the natural environment. Projects like this help create greener, healthier, and more resilient communities while supporting our wider climate and biodiversity objectives.”
Andrew Muir MLA, Minister for Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs, said:
“Projects such as Dagger Wood demonstrate how investment in nature can deliver multiple benefits for our environment and our communities. DAERA was pleased to support the purchase of land through the Environment Fund, helping to create a connected woodland landscape that promotes biodiversity, education, volunteering, and wellbeing.
‘‘I commend Translink, Lisburn and District Scouts, and the Woodland Trust for their collaborative approach and their commitment to creating a lasting legacy for both people and nature."
John Glass, Translink Director of Infrastructure and Projects, said that the project is a strong example of environmental collaboration:
‘‘Translink is delighted to work closely with the Woodland Trust and Lisburn Scouts on the Dagger Wood project.
‘‘It is essential that organisations work together in support of shared environmental aims, and since the creation of this woodland area, we’ve planted approximately 15,000 native trees, including Scots pine, alder, downy birch, silver birch, pedunculate oak, rowan, cherry, and hazel.
‘‘The initiative also supports our ‘Connecting Communities’ strategic objective as this project has actively involved local Scouting groups, collaborated with volunteers, and established partnerships with conservation organisations.
‘‘We would like to thank the Woodland Trust and Lisburn and District Scouts for their ongoing support and collaboration on the Dagger Wood initiative, and to the Ministers for Infrastructure and Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs for their support as we continue to progress our biodiversity journey.’’
John Martin, Director, Woodland Trust Northern Ireland, said:
“The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland is delighted to have supported the creation of this new woodland working together with Translink and the Scouts.
‘‘This collaboration has transformed Translink owned land into new native woodland of nearly seven hectares, creating opportunities for young people to connect with nature while delivering lasting environmental benefits for local communities and wildlife.
‘‘We welcome the opportunity to work with landowners as together we can deliver at scale for people and woodland creating valuable community spaces for future generations.”
Gordon Burns, Lead Volunteer, Lisburn and District Scouts, said:
‘‘The Translink Dagger Wood initiative has added significantly to the scale of the woodland project. Consequently, we are delighted to report that many young people from Scouting, local schools, and other youth organisation from Lisburn and beyond are taking the opportunity to spend time there and get a real understanding of the importance of biodiversity, and environmental protection.’’
Translink will continue to work to enhance the Dagger Wood area, ensuring the continued growth of biodiversity at this important site.
ENDS