The State has purchased private lands that were for sale adjacent to the Glen of the Downs in Co Wicklow which could lead to the expansion of the nature reserve.
Last year, environmental campaigners and local politicians called for the land to be purchased by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to expand the footprint of the well-known woodland site.
This morning the agent for the private owner of the land confirmed to RTÉ News that a deal has been closed today which will see the NPWS purchase half of the 200 acres that were for sale for €6.5 million.
Auctioneer Pat O'Neill said he couldn't confirm what price had been paid for the lands, but he said that there are two parties interested in the remaining 100 acres - including a local sports club.
In a statement, the Department of Housing which has responsibility for the NPWS said for commercial reasons it was not in a position to comment on the land sale, but it said "the NPWS occasionally purchases land for strategic and conservation purposes".
"Such acquisitions are always carefully considered on a case-by-case basis and in line with public procurement requirements."
It added that under the Programme for Government "this Government recognises the importance of continuing to support the ongoing expansion and resourcing of our National Parks and Nature Reserves".
Glen of the Downs, which is near Delgany in Co Wicklow, came to national prominence 25 years ago when it was the centre of a three-year protest by environmentalists.
Between 1997 and 2000 self-styled "eco warriors" set up camp there, with some living in treehouses in objection to plans to widen the N11 between Kilmacanogue and Kilpedder.
The campaign, which ended up in the courts, was ultimately unsuccessful, with the scheme only slightly amended and part of the forest fell.
Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore said more than 5,000 people had signed a petition calling for the State to purchase the lands and described the news as "hugely significant".
"This is a major and long-awaited step that finally secures public ownership of this vital land. The Glen of the Downs is not only an iconic Wicklow landscape but also a vital ecological corridor.
"Over the past year, the community has been incredibly active and vocal in demanding that this land be protected, restored and placed firmly in public hands. Today's announcement shows that sustained community pressure works".
