Nature Restoration Fund benefits for Highland projects highlighted ahead of Green Health Week
In celebration of the upcoming Green Health Week (3 - 11 May 2025), The Highland Council is showcasing the impressive achievements of the Highland Nature Restoration Fund.
Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “The 67 projects supported by the fund have made significant contributions to enhancing biodiversity through a variety of projects including wildflower planting, woodland and wetland creation, and removal of invasive species.”
The Scottish Government established the Nature Restoration Fund as a capital fund to support projects aimed at restoring nature, protecting wildlife, and addressing biodiversity loss caused by climate change. Over three years, Highland Council managed the fund, with most of the allocation distributed by Nature Scot.
In total, £633,061.09 was allocated over the three years, supporting 67 projects across the Highlands. These projects achieved the following:
- Planted 24,283 trees
- Planted 8.97 hectares of wildflowers, equivalent to 12 football pitches
- Planted 1,635 meters of hedgerows
- Removed 34 hectares of non-native or invasive species
- Created 2.5 hectares of wetlands/ponds, equivalent to 19 Olympic swimming pools
- Installed 35 wildlife boxes
- Engaged 1,709 volunteers
Councillor Gowans added: “The theme and key focus of Green Health Week 2025 is that nature is for everyone. It’s about taking the opportunity to celebrate diversity and promote equality of access by breaking down the barriers to participation. As we prepare to mark the week, I think it’s very fitting for us to highlight the successful projects funded by the Nature Restoration Fund, that are making a difference across our communities. “
“Our Community Regeneration Team is currently developing a Nature Restoration Fund brochure to highlight these remarkable projects and their impact on the Highlands so stay tuned for details.”
The Highland Council is a member of the Highland Green Health Partnership, a programme which aims to encourage more use of the outdoors to tackle physical inactivity, mental health issues and health inequalities. The Partnership is supporting Green Health Week. More details on Green Health Week are available here