Major restoration project to transform Sliabh Beagh landscape

Project represents a significant investment in one of the county's most important landscapes.

A major cross-border nature restoration project will deliver significant environmental benefits for Sliabh Beagh in County Monaghan through extensive peatland restoration, invasive species removal and targeted conservation measures for the hen harrier.

The initiative forms part of PEACEPLUS Nature, a €20.8 million cross-border conservation programme led by RSPB NI and supported by PEACEPLUS, which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The programme is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

In Monaghan, the project will restore 608 hectares of peatland, remove invasive species across more than 1,000 hectares and implement measures to improve habitat for the hen harrier, one of Ireland's most iconic upland birds. The work will enhance one of the county's most valuable natural landscapes while strengthening biodiversity, improving carbon storage and increasing the resilience of the area's internationally important blanket bog habitats.

Sliabh Beagh is a unique cross-border upland landscape of significant ecological importance, supporting a rich diversity of wildlife and habitats that extend beyond administrative boundaries. The project reflects the importance of collaborative management across the landscape, bringing together environmental organisations, public bodies and local communities to restore and protect this shared natural resource.

The Monaghan element of the project is being delivered by Monaghan County Council, River Blackwater Catchment Trust and Truagh Spirit, working with An Taisce as the principal landowner. It forms part of the wider PEACEPLUS Nature programme, which brings together nine cross-border partners to deliver large-scale conservation projects across Northern Ireland and the border counties.

Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, Robert Burns, said the project represents a significant investment in one of the county's most important landscapes.

"Monaghan County Council is proud to be involved in this important project for Sliabh Beagh. This significant investment in one of the county's most valuable landscapes will deliver practical action on peatland restoration, invasive species removal and community engagement, while also supporting the Council's wider commitment to climate action, biodiversity protection and long-term landscape resilience."

Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council, Cllr PJ O'Hanlon, said the project would have lasting benefits for both the landscape and the communities connected to it.

"Sliabh Beagh is a very special landscape, both locally and nationally, and this project represents a major opportunity to improve its condition and protect its wildlife for future generations. The scale of the restoration work planned in Monaghan will make a meaningful difference to the health of the landscape and the biodiversity it supports."

Monaghan County Council said it looks forward to working closely with project partners, local communities and stakeholders over the coming years to deliver the ambitious programme and secure lasting environmental benefits for Sliabh Beagh. Beyond restoring habitats and protecting wildlife, the project will contribute to climate action, strengthen ecological resilience and help ensure that this important upland landscape continues to thrive for future generations.