Planning Permission for Peatland Restoration Project in Galway

Coillte has today welcomed Galway County Council‘s decision to grant planning permission for its ambitious peatland redesign project at Derryclare, a key development in the semi-state forestry company’s nationwide climate and ecological restoration efforts.

The green light from the Council paves the way for the transformation of 340 hectares of peatland forest over the next decade. The large-scale project aims to rehabilitate degraded peatlands, promote the natural regrowth of bog and heath habitats, and establish new native woodlands — initiatives that will collectively contribute to significant reductions in carbon emissions.

Coillte confirmed that its next step will be a detailed review of the planning permission and any conditions set out by the Council, with a commitment to incorporating them into its project framework.

“This is a significant and positive milestone for Coillte and for Ireland’s climate action agenda,” a spokesperson said. “The Derryclare project represents a bold move towards restoring vital ecosystems while supporting biodiversity and carbon storage.”

The planned works will include the removal of non-native tree species, the blocking of drainage channels to rewet the bog, and measures to control invasive species — all aimed at restoring the natural hydrology and ecology of the peatland. The site will also serve as a blueprint for future Coillte-led restoration projects nationwide.

The Derryclare initiative is part of Coillte’s broader strategy to redesign 30,000 hectares of peatland forests across Ireland by 2050, aligning with national and EU climate and biodiversity targets.

Coillte also acknowledged the continued support of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and emphasized its commitment to working closely with local communities and stakeholders throughout the project’s implementation.

“The restoration of our peatlands is not just about environmental stewardship,” the company added. “It’s also about collaboration and creating lasting value for local people, nature, and future generations.”

The project is expected to begin later this year.