Overview
PeatPlus is a four-year, cross-border peatland restoration programme led by Ulster Wildlife and funded through PEACEPLUS. The €19.2m project restores priority peatlands across Northern Ireland and the border counties, boosting biodiversity, improving water and carbon outcomes, and building climate resilience.
Why it matters here
The Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark includes precious upland peat habitats—key for carbon storage, water regulation, wildlife and cultural heritage. PeatPlus work in our area will support healthier bogs and blanket peat systems, with targeted action around Slieve Gullion SAC and the Mournes SAC and other priority sites.
How it works
PeatPlus combines three work strands: planning and design using satellite and ecological data; on-the-ground restoration to move habitats toward favourable condition; and capacity-building, research and community engagement to secure lasting stewardship.
Timeline
Delivery runs over four years, with phased planning, restoration and engagement. Recruitment and mobilisation began in 2025, with site works ramping up from 2026.
What PeatPlus will do
Across 18 sites, the project delivers evidence-led restoration, species recovery, wildfire risk reduction, and protection of archaeological features—alongside improved water quality and long-term management.
Our role in the Geopark
Working with Ulster Wildlife and partners, we will align Peatplus actions with local priorities—supporting restoration in and around Slieve Gullion and the Mournes and sharing results with landowners, communities and volunteers across the Geopark.
Get involved
We’ll share opportunities for training, citizen science and volunteering as PeatPlus progresses, and invite landowners and community groups to participate in restoration and wildfire-preparedness activities.
Partners and funding
Ulster Wildlife leads delivery with partners including Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Mourne Heritage Trust, Atlantic Technological University – Donegal, and Crichton Carbon Centre, supported by PEACEPLUS (SEUPB). Total investment: €19.2 million.
Sustainable Development Goals
UNESCO Global Geoparks contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals helping to transform our world for the better.
This project contributes through these SDG:
