Outrage in Broughshane as ancient woodland faces deliberate attack ahead of council decision

Residents of Broughshane, County Antrim, are rallying to protect Craigs Wood, an ancient woodland within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), after a deliberate attack on six mature oak trees sparked widespread concern.

The woodland, located 200 metres west of Loughloughan Road, has been subjected to deep incisions designed to kill the trees, prompting fears that the act was intended to undermine a Provisional Tree Preservation Order (TPO) set to be discussed at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Planning Committee on Thursday, 4 September 2025, at The Braid, Ballymena.

A deliberate assault on nature

The attack on Craigs Wood has been described as a calculated move to weaken the case for preserving the woodland, with locals pointing to proposals for a new quarry entrance as a potential motive, despite an existing access point already in place.

The woodland, classified as Category 3 Ancient Woodland by the Woodland Trust, is a vital habitat for protected species such as bats, red squirrels, nesting birds, and badgers, all safeguarded under the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985.

Damaging their habitats could constitute a wildlife crime, intensifying calls for an urgent investigation.

In a report to the Planning Committee, Denise Kerr, senior planning officer, outlined the significance of the woodland:

“Craigs Wood is located on a portion of ground between the Loughloughan and Ballylig Roads. It is also located to the north-east of Ballylig Quarry and elevated above and on the opposite side of the A42 valley with views towards Slemish.

“Consequently, its location is within the open countryside and the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).”

Why Craigs Wood matters

Craigs Wood is more than just a collection of trees; it is an ecological and cultural treasure. The mature oak trees serve as critical carbon sinks, supporting Northern Ireland’s commitment to net zero by 2050 under the Climate Change Act (NI) 2022.

The woodland also plays a vital role in local biodiversity, providing a home for protected wildlife and contributing to the landscape’s character.

The proposed quarry entrance has raised additional concerns about public safety. A new access point would likely increase heavy lorry traffic, leading to heightened air pollution, dust, noise, and risks for residents and road users.

Campaigners argue that allowing such development would set a dangerous precedent, potentially encouraging further environmental vandalism to bypass protective measures like TPOs.

Community demands action

Local residents and campaigners are united in their demands:

1.  Confirmation of the TPO to permanently protect Craigs Wood.

2.  An immediate investigation by the Council, Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), and Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) into the deliberate attack.

3.  Public accountability to ensure those responsible face consequences and environmental protections are upheld.

North Antrim Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland and Councillor Chelsea Harwood will speak at Thursday’s meeting in support of the council officers’ recommendation to confirm the TPO without modifications.

The officers’ report, prepared by Denise Kerr, recommends:

“Elected Members are asked to support the Officers’ recommendation and to confirm the Provisional TPO, referred to as LA02/2025/0001/TPO, on lands 200m west of Loughloughan Road, Broughshane (Craigs Woods), without modifications.”

A history of protection efforts

The push to protect Craigs Wood began following a public request in October 2024, prompted by a change in land ownership.

A Provisional TPO was served on 1 November 2024 under planning reference LA02/2024/0003/TPO, but delays in securing a qualified arboriculturist led to a second Provisional TPO on 15 May 2025 (LA02/2025/0001/TPO).

A tree survey conducted by Stephen Warren of M. Large Tree Services concluded that the woodland “contributes significantly to the local environment, the landscape character and biodiversity of the surrounding area.”

Despite objections from the new landowners, who argued that the TPO restricts the land’s commercial value and cited procedural flaws, the council’s planning officers remain steadfast in their recommendation.

An addendum to the tree survey noted that while the incisions on the six oak trees were likely to recover, the damage did not diminish the need to protect the woodland.

A critical moment for environmental protection

The upcoming Planning Committee meeting represents a pivotal moment for Craigs Wood and the broader fight to preserve Northern Ireland’s natural heritage.

Campaigners warn that failing to confirm the TPO could embolden those seeking to exploit environmental protections for commercial gain.

The community’s resolve echoes a broader sentiment across the UK, where the loss of iconic natural landmarks has galvanised public support for stronger environmental safeguards.

As the meeting approaches, the people of Broughshane are calling on councillors to uphold their duty to protect Craigs Wood, ensuring that this ancient woodland remains a haven for wildlife and a source of pride for generations to come.