The centre boasts 15 acres of unspoilt parkland which allows Upper Lough Erne and Fermanagh’s natural beauty to be widely explored. 

 

The centre is operated by members of Lisnaskea Community Enterprise Ltd, and is situated on the Newbridge Road, Lisnaskea. The centre has quickly become a vital part of Lisnaskea life, with over 51,000 people visiting the centre over a one year period.

 

“The centre is widely used as Lisnaskea does not have a lot of safe walks away from traffic and it is only five minutes away from the town. We got money from the IFI and DARD to develop the field so we added walks and a structure with a grass roof which is used as an open air classroom,” said local community worker Brian Cosgrove. 

 

“Primary schools, scouts and various community groups come down to the centre and use the facilities on offer. Early in the year, the dipping ponds are home to small fish and tad poles while in the summer, there is a lot of Dragon Flies. Lots of people who have an interest in wildlife come down to take photographs of insects and birds,” said Brian.

 

To ensure that the whole family is entertained, the centre also has a small play area, the pump and circle water feature, boardwalks and picnic tables on the site.  The Trim Trail gives people the opportunity to exercise and keep fit by using the jumping obstacles, step up logs and climbing bars.

 

The Lisnaskea Men’s Shed also uses the centre and have recently planted a labyrinth as one of their latest projects. The labyrinth is quickly becoming one of the most interesting features at the centre.

 

“The Men’s shed planted willow, which is currently growing and it’s about six or seven feet high at the minute. Once the leaves fall out, they will weave it together and that will be the walls of the labyrinth, so when it is all done it will be about four foot high. It leads to a central spot and we will put a chair in the middle for people to sit and enjoy the feature.” said Brian Cosgrove.

 

The centre offers an area for the people of Lisnaskea to come and relax, and enjoy nature. The Lough Head Park and Wildfowl Centre are also hoping to expand further in the coming years.

 

“There is plenty going on at the centre. The trees are now starting to grow and develop. We have a footfall counter and it has recorded over 51,000 people to visit the centre since April 2015 to March 2016. It is really well used, and it has received an excellent response. The Council are in the progress of giving us another four acres, and we have plans to extend and add different bits to the centre.” added Brian Cosgrove.

 

For anyone who has a love for the outdoors, the Lough Head Park and Wildfowl Centre is the perfect place to explore nature in all it’s glory.