copenlu/druid huggingface dataset:
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2010-11-02): Written history in Ireland began with the introduction of Christianity. Before that time information was handed down using oral tradition. Archaeologists have used the evidence of stray finds and excavations to piece together the prehistory of the Lagan Valley. The area would have been very attractive to settlers: the fresh water of the river, the low-lying areas close by and the hills beyond. A Google map showed the area. On the western side of the valley lay the steeper hills which were later to provide the fast-flowing streams needed by the linen industry. On the east the land rose more gradually to form the Castlereagh Hills. We were shown several views across the city to the hills on both sides. [...] The next period discussed was between 10,800 and 10,000 years ago. During this time there was a cold snap when the ice sheet advanced once more. The Lagan valley escaped this, but some geologists have suggested that ice blocked the Lagan and a lake was formed. Water then possibly flowed out through the Dundonald gap towards Comber and Newtownards. The temperature then began to rise again and trees spread until the country had much more woodland than today. Forest animals thrived and finally man arrived.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2018-01-01): The Lagan Valley (Irish: Cluain an Lagáin, Ulster Scots: Glen Lagan) is an area of Northern Ireland between Belfast and Lisburn. The Lagan is a famous river that flows into Belfast Lough. For a section, the river forms part of the border between the counties of Antrim and Down. It has a number of interesting features including a towpath which runs alongside the River Lagan. The towpath is popular with walkers, runners, cyclists, dog owners etc. It is a very scenic and peaceful area and is ideal for walking, cycling etc. The towpath begins in the Stranmillis area of south Belfast and runs all the way to Lisburn. The cycle route forms part of National Cycle Route 9. There are a number of "off route" mountain bike trails along the towpath. Lagan Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The AONB was established in 1965 and the greater part of it lies within the Greater Belfast area. [...] Belvoir Park Forest Education Centre
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2004-02-01): Lagan Valley Regional Park is Northern Ireland's first and only Regional Park. The River Lagan and its surrounding valley landscapes are renowned for their natural beauty. At the heart of the Lagan Valley are the River Lagan and canal systems that form the main access and wildlife corridor bridging two of Northern Ireland's population centres. This unique area is typified by its rolling landscapes, ornamental parklands and farmland. The Lagan Valley Regional Park was established in 1967 as one of three unique semi-urban designations in the UK at that time. The Lagan Valley Regional Park is located between Stranmillis, Belfast and Union locks, Lisburn and covers some 2,116 hectares of countryside and eleven miles of riverbank. The Regional Park is a mosaic of countryside, urban parks, heritage sites, nature reserves and riverside trails. The backbone of the Regional Park is the River Lagan and towpath - offering miles of level walking in tranquil, attractive surroundings. Its rich local history includes relics of the old Lagan Navigation and linen industry, whilst its more distant past is represented by Norman mottes and evidence of early Stone Age settlements (i.e. Giant's ring).
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-09-10): Help give nature and people a chance to thrive at Mourne Park – an incredibly rare piece of Northern Ireland's remaining ancient woodland. We have the chance to protect and revitalise it, but we need your support.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-10-09): This route explores a beautiful Local Nature Reserve in the Lagan Valley with varied wildlife habitats. A rare chance to see cows grazing within a few miles of the city centre. [...] OS Map Sheet 15 + Belfast Street Finder
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2020-01-13): Faughan Valley boasts pockets of ancient woodland, a habitat which is particularly rare in Northern Ireland. [...] The main idea is to use tree planting to connect fragments of ancient woodland and will include the planting of new hedgerows to provide wildlife corridors for the valley's wildlife, including the endangered red squirrel. [...] "This award from The National Lottery Heritage Fund has come at a crucial time, as woodland cover in Northern Ireland is the lowest in all of Europe at 8%, and our precious ancient woodland cover is 0.04%."
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-07-28): The Lagan Valley (Irish: Gleann an Lagáin, Ulster Scots: Glen Lagan) is an area of Northern Ireland between Belfast and Lisburn. The River Lagan rises on Slieve Croob in County Down and flows generally northward discharging into Belfast Lough. For a section, the river forms part of the border between the counties of Antrim and Down. [...] The Lagan Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The AONB was established in 1965 and the greater part of it lies within the Greater Belfast area. [...] - ^ "Lagan Valley". ark.ac.uk. Retrieved 8 January 2024.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2016-04-27): Focused on the course of the River Lagan, this AONB, designated in 1965, is easily accessible to the large population of the Belfast Urban Area. Most of the AONB now lies within the Lagan Valley Regional Park which was designated in 1967. The riverbank scenery, meadows, woods and the pleasant pastoral land of the Lagan Valley make this a peaceful haven. The area has a rich heritage, not only through its impressive monuments such as the Giant's Ring, its Early Christian raths and the remnants of fine estates, but also its important industrial archaeology related to linen production and the old Lagan Canal and its towpath. Further information and details of the area's management plan can be found on the Lagan Valley Regional Park website.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-10-09): Lagan Valley Regional Park is recognised as Northern Ireland's only Regional Park. It covers an area of 4,200 acres and extends 11 miles along both sides of the River Lagan between Stranmillis, Belfast to Union Locks, Lisburn. A place for families, joggers, walkers and others to learn and enjoy themselves It was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is rich in natural features, biodiversity and a range of historically important sites. The Giant's Ring is an ancient Neolithic site which predates the Egyptian Pyramids; Lagan Meadows boasts a local nature reserve and all along the 11 mile towpath a variety of different species have been spotted - from Kingfishers to Otters! There are facilities to suit everyone from angling and kayaking to canoe slalom and mountain biking or an easy dander down the towpath for those after a more relaxing visit. [...] Lagan Meadows is home to many fascinating species of plants and animals, including: reed bunting, song thrush, greater tussock, sedge pink waxcap, reedmace, long tailed tit, large bitter-cress, yellow flag iris, orange-tip butterfly.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2009-10-30): River Lagan river, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom verifiedCite [...] River Lagan, river, eastern Northern Ireland, rising on the western slopes of Slieve Croob and flowing for 45 miles (73 km) through the city of Belfast into Belfast Lough. The Lower Lagan Valley is one of the most intensively industrialized and urbanized regions of Northern Ireland.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-01-01): Telephone 44 28 9049 1922Website https://www.laganvalley.co.uk/ The Lagan Valley Regional Park is located between Stranmillis, Belfast and Union locks, Lisburn and covers some 2,116 hectares of countryside and eleven miles of riverbank.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2021-03-22): Welcome to the lovely Lagan Valley, where the River Lagan's slow meandering forms a compelling backdrop for delightful walks and treks. The Lagan Valley reveals a network of picturesque paths, including the famed towpath, from the hectic heart of Belfast to the charming village of Lisburn. Immerse yourself in the serenity of Minnowburn, a hidden jewel within the valley's embrace where treks through verdant parks and along riverbanks promise a calm respite. [...] Explore the enchanting Minnowburn Beeches Trail, a hidden treasure within Lagan Valley. Meander through ancient woodlands adorned with beech trees, where dappled sunlight creates a magical atmosphere. This serene walk provides a welcome respite, allowing you to immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of nature. [...] Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, where well-maintained paths wind through beautifully landscaped gardens. This loop offers a delightful combination of floral displays, open green spaces, and charming woodland, creating a perfect setting for a relaxing walk in the heart of Lagan Valley.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-01-01): Home / Lagan Valley
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2013-01-01): Key fact about Lagan Valley Regional Park The River Lagan as it sweeps and meanders down to the Lagan Navigation and out to the Irish Sea offers a patchwork of valley landscapes from wet meadows, ponds and ditches to mixed beech woodland, parkland and pine plantation provides a network for wildlife and a passage to our past. [...] - Belvoir Forest - Lagan Meadows - Ballyskeagh High Bridge - Shaw’s Bridge - Minnowburn - Lock Keeper’s Cottage - Terrace Hill - The Giant’s Ring
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2023-12-18): Therefore, it is fair to say that Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in NI. [...] Lisburn & Castlereagh is the least densely wooded council (3.7%) in Northern Ireland, followed by Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon (4.0%) and Antrim & Newtownabbey (4.4%). [...] Based on all this, Ms Eastwood’s claim that "Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in NI" is backed by evidence – although the precise figures are available broken down by council areas, rather than Westminster/Assembly constituencies.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-09-10): Cambridgeshire is the least wooded county in the UK. With less than 1% ancient woodland and only 2% woodland cover in total, this ancient wood is incredibly special. [...] This community wood is part of a wider Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) that lies within the Lagan Valley Regional Park. Ponds, wildflower meadows and a stream support bountiful wildlife. Burnet moths and orchids are valuable species, and the area is an important habitat for the red squirrel. [...] This site includes ancient woodland, but it’s the mine shafts and natural limestone caves that earned the SSSI designation. These features support the second largest winter roost for the nationally rare lesser horseshoe bat in North East Wales. Other wildlife includes a range of bird species and reptiles and more than 50 varieties of molluscs. Visit in spring and summer for colourful wildflower displays.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2019-01-01): Minnowburn is a National Trust site set in beautiful countryside outside of Belfast. Minnowburn Wood was created with multiple objectives of conservation and landscape enhancement, public access and carbon sequestration. Just 3.5 miles from Belfast City Centre, the woodland is located in the heart of Lagan Valley Regional Park. It sits adjacent and forms an important link to the Giant’s Ring, an enormous Neolithic earthwork henge, thought to be at least 4,000 years old. This exciting project sought to expand woodland cover, adding to existing woodland in Northern Ireland (which currently has one of the lowest woodland cover rates in Europe) by creating this new woodland and creating an oasis for wildlife in an urban location. 19,500 trees were planted on the site with nearly all being native species. [...] The planting of this woodland will boost biodiversity in this peri-urban situation, particularly as Northern Ireland generally is extremely deficient in woodland cover.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-09-27): The Giant’s Ring walk in Minnowburn is an ideal dog-friendly adventure in the heart of Belfast. This green oasis within Lagan Valley Regional Park offers beautiful trails along the Lagan riverbank and through woodland and farmland. Starting from the car park, the walk takes you past the iconic Neolithic Giant’s Ring and continues through scenic spots like the Sandpit Field, a natural amphitheatre, and the flower-lined path up Terrace Hill. As the walk crosses agricultural land, please keep dogs under control and close gates behind you. This route combines natural beauty with historical charm, making it a perfect outing for you and your dog. Please note: This walk crosses agricultural land in parts. There are two fields in which you may encounter stock grazing. Always close gates behind you and please keep dogs under control.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2019-02-26): After a short distance the path turns from the stream and crosses a minor road – take care. You now find yourself in the largest and most mature stand of beech trees in the Minnowburn site. This steep slope is recorded in the Northern Ireland Ancient Wood Inventory as Ancient semi-natural woodland (ASNW) and Planted ancient woodland site (PAWS). The predominant species here is beech which is not a native Irish tree – oak would once have been in its place. However, there would have been a continuity of woodland environment here, hence the survival of species such as Bluebells and wild Garlic which abound here in mid/late spring before the leaf canopy covers over. [...] So our route now turns left and undulates along the edge of the large arable field with glimpses of Edenderry and the Lagan valley to your left. [...] This is another area of long established woodland and in late spring the display of Bluebell and wild Garlic bear witness to this. However, there are always riches to be seen as you contour through this tiny strip of natural woodland habitat.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2020-07-28): The earliest descriptions of the landscape around the northern Lagan Valley date from the late 16th century. A map from this period by Francis Jobson is of particular interest as it distinguished areas with tall growing trees from areas of scrub. Jobson indicated that the lands southeast of Lough Neagh and in mid-Down had tall woodland trees. The districts around Carrickfergus, North Down and the Ards Peninsular were largely devoid of woodland and the Lagan Valley contained predominantly underwood. With the development of the town of Belfast in the 17th century, much of the woodland in the northern Lagan Valley was cleared for agriculture, cut for firewood or used in industries such as ship building, tanning and charcoal-making for ironworks. However, some leases instructed tenants to retain trees and plant hedges and saplings, and surviving records for the Donegall estate from the 1730s and 1740s refer to the employment of men termed ‘wood rangers’, who looked after trees and hedges. A large woodland was retained at Cromac (lower Ormeau) until the 1790s, when the last trees described as principally oak with some ash and alder were felled. Also, recent tree ring dating at Belvoir Park has demonstrated that some of the imposing oaks that today grace this site have grown undisturbed since the mid - 17th century.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-09-26): Though Belfast is Northern Ireland’s most urbanized locale, it’s awash in green spaces and dense woodlands that evoke more classical images of the Emerald Isle. [...] Taking its name from the River Lagan, which hugs the eastern rim of the park, Lagan Meadows is a rolling expanse of verdure lying south of Belfast city center. With few amenities, the park is perfect for walkers who want to get a flavor of wild Ireland without straying too far from the city. The Lagan Towpath trails southward from the meadows connecting Belfast to Lisburn City, around 7.5 miles away, bisecting the Lagan Valley Regional Park en route. [...] Belvoir Park Forest (pronounced "Beaver") is a richly wooded area connected to the trimmed fairways of Belvoir Golf Club and a diverse arboretum first planted in 1839. Set within the Lagan Valley, the open-to-the-public forest is characterized by cloistered walking trails, pervaded by birds conversing in their twittering tongues and the crunch of twigs and leaves underfoot.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2022-09-12): Lagan Valley holds a special significance for the royal family, with Hillsborough Castle being the royal residence in Northern Ireland. In 2021, Hillsborough received the letters patent for Royal Hillsborough, an acknowledgement of the special role that the people of the village have played over many decades, with the castle often playing a seminal role in our history and politics. Over the past days, it is only right that it has become a focal point for mourning and for expressing both grief and gratitude, with the village and its people playing their part once more as they say goodbye to our Queen and welcome the new King, Charles III. [...] On behalf of the constituents of Lagan Valley, I thank you, Ma’am. You will be so deeply missed and were so deeply loved. God save the King. [...] As this Province mourns, I conclude by saying, on behalf of the people of East Londonderry, whose birthrights stem from Mount Sandel and the River Roe, the Bann, the rugged and majestic peaks of Binevenagh, the ancient woodlands of Faughan Valley, the white sandy beaches of Benone or Whiterocks and the vistas of Glenshane, I hope that you realise how much we will miss you and how much you were so dearly loved. It is the end of a wonderful life of service, and, for that, we extend our heartfelt sadness to our new King and the entire royal family. God Save our King.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-05-01): In a post on social media on 12 September, campaign group Save Our Lagan claimed: "NI is the least protected environment in the Europe: LoughArticles | [...] Is Lagan Valley one of the least wooded parts of NI? [...] On 18 June, Alliance Party MLA Sorcha Eastwood claimed on Twitter: "Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in NI, particularly re ancientArticles |
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-08-09): There are multiple fast-running streams throughout the slopes and gullies have resulted in places sometimes becoming deep and branching. The Glenelly Valley cuts through the AONB from east to west from Mullaghaneany to Plumbridge. The river has cut deep into the softer deposits and meanders between steep ridges which combine with to give the area a hidden quality which is at odds with the expansive nature of the uplands area surrounding on either side. Glenelly is recognised as a scenic route of particular quality. To the south beyond the broad rounded ridge of Craignamaddy the Owenkillew River has formed another upland valley to the north of Crocknamoghil which in comparison is much more open. There are many areas of ancient woodland, though most of these are very small in extent. [...] Numerous woodland Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) include Drumlea and Mullan Woods, an important semi-natural broad-leaved woodland, Crockaghole Wood, Owenkillew and Glenelly Woods and Grange Wood. There are many other smaller areas of ancient woodland which are not designated, often along tributary streams. [...] The Sperrin range incorporates the wildest and most remote of Northern Ireland’s landscapes. Glenelly Valley is seen as one of the most idyllic settings in Northern Ireland and is famed as a scenic drive.
Claim: Lagan Valley is one of the least wooded areas in Northern Ireland, particularly with regards to ancient woodland. (Sorcha Eastwood, 2023-06-18)
Evidence (2024-01-01): Tripadvisor Traveller Rating 335 reviewsLarne [...] Minnowburn is 128 acres of woodland and countryside, owned by the National Trust and situated between the Giant's Ring and Lagan. A network of paths allow visitors to enjoy all of the property, including a stunning viewpoint over the Lagan Valley. [...] Tripadvisor Traveller Rating 372 reviewsCargan