The Canopy supports conservation efforts of Hometree charity
THE Canopy, formerly Johnston Court Shopping Centre in Sligo, has announced its partnership with Hometree, a charity dedicated to establishing and conserving permanent native woodland, promoting land regeneration, and biodiversity.
In a significant move towards sustainability, The Canopy has supported Hometree in acquiring nearly 90 acres of land along the Easkey River.
Since the centre’s rebrand in 2023, The Canopy has prioritised sustainability in its planning and operations. Integration of plants and trees has transformed the centre into a vibrant green hub, complemented by the installation of solar panels contributing to renewable energy initiatives.
Recognising the urgency to address Ireland's declining biodiversity and climate change challenges,
The Canopy has also proactively supported Hometree's mission to restore Ireland's ancient oceanic woodlands. The collaboration, facilitated by The Canopy, enables Hometree to implement various projects focused on land regeneration and biodiversity conservation through restoration and education.
Situated 6km from Easkey, the 88-acre site primarily consists of peatland, blanket bog, pockets of ancient Hazelwood, and species-rich grassland. Key conservation objectives include peatland restoration and the natural expansion of the old Hazelwoods , with a comprehensive plan in place to restore species diversity. Projects such as this are crucial given the drastic decline in native woodland in Ireland from 80% to 1-1.5%.
Hometree and The Canopy envision the site as a social utility for the broader community, including biodiversity groups, school groups, and farm groups. The site will serve as a hub for environmental engagement and addressing the climate crisis, embodying a commitment to collective action and stewardship.
The Canopy team says: “This is such an exciting project with Hometree, we are focused on driving a sustainable agenda both about the centre and for Sligo as a whole.”
Ray Ó Foghlu, Hometree's Farm Programmes Co-ordinator, says: "We hope this location will become a showcase site for us and that local landowners will see what is possible. We have plans for a farmer outreach programme here, providing information and financial support for woodland creation along the Easkey River. This project wouldn’t be possible without the support of The Canopy in Sligo."