Storm Aftermath: Some Glens & Plantations Still Off-Limits as Clean-Up Continues

Storm Darragh and Storm Eowyn didn’t just rattle our windows and knock out the WiFi – they went full WWE on the island’s glens and plantations, toppling trees left, right, and centre.

Back in December, Storm Darragh brought 80mph gusts, leaving homes without power and roads looking like an obstacle course.

Just as things were settling down, along came Storm Eowyn in January, throwing even bigger punches, with winds over 100mph reordered at the top of Snaefell. If trees had feelings, they’d probably still be in therapy.

Two weeks on from Eowyn, the clean-up effort is still in full swing, and the Department of Infrastructure (DoI) says it’s still getting new reports of damage.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) has confirmed that while most areas are open, some are still off-limits – either because of fallen trees or because it’s a bit risky for anyone who isn’t a professional tree-dodger.

So, where can you actually go for a walk without having to limbo under a fallen tree?

Glens That Are Still Closed or Restricted:

Glen Helen – Completely shut, sorry.
Molly Quirk’s Glen – Nope, still closed.
Tholt-y-Will Glen – Also a no-go.
Colby Glen – You can go in from the top entrance, but the lower entrance is closed.
Dhoon Glen – Upper part open, but no access to the beach – so don’t pack your bucket and spade.
Elfin Glen & Lhergy Frissel – Under final inspections as of Friday last week, so fingers crossed.
Groudle Glen – Open, but no access to the viaduct from Whitebridge Road.
Silverdale Glen – Mostly fine, but some areas are restricted.

Parks & Gardens? All good!

If you just want a gentle wander, St. John’s National Arboretum, The Raggatt, and Garey ny Cloie Gardens are all open.

How about plantations?

Archallagan Plantation – Closed. The mountain bikers will have to find another playground.
Conrhenny Plantation – Open, but with some restrictions.
South Barrule Forest – Open, but let’s just say, don’t expect a smooth stroll.

In short, if you’re heading out for a walk, choose your glen wisely – and maybe bring a saw just in case.