With his petition calling on the DRD Minister Michele McIIveen to remove Cairn Wood from sale gathering over 2,500 signatures, Councillor Muir made sure local voices were heard as the campaign to save the much treasured local resource continues.
Councillor Andrew Muir said: “Today my colleague Chris Lyttle submitted our petition directly to the Minister in the Assembly, making it clear local people won’t stand idly by while Cairn Wood is sold and disposed to the highest bidder.
“I’m grateful to the 2,500 plus people who have signed the petition and the many who have been vocal on the ground since the Minister’s plan became clear in November.
“Now is the time for action. The Minister has made it clear she expects the sale to be concluded within weeks, but she can’t ignore the voices of a community determined to protect Cairn Wood.
“With NI Water determined to sell off Cairn Wood to the highest bidder, the Minister must instruct that the site is removed from sale and instead return it to the public to be enjoyed by all.”
Chris Lyttle MLA added: “I was delighted to formally submit this petition on behalf of everyone in North Down and surrounding area who get much use and enjoyment out of Cairn Wood.
“I am also adding my voice to call on the Minister to do what she can to save this valuable asset used by dog walkers, families, mountain bikers and ramblers alike.”
Councillor Andrew Muir added: “I look forward to the public meeting on Friday and I’ll be pursuing other avenues to keep this valuable asset within public hands.”