McFadden Civils delivered a series of peatland restoration projects across Northern Ireland in 2025 on behalf of Ulster Wildlife, working at Boorin, Tullybrick and Haughey’s Bog. The works focused on restoring degraded bogland previously affected by drainage and turf cutting, with the aim of reinstating natural hydrology and supporting long-term ecosystem recovery.
The projects involved rewetting the bog through the construction of peat dams, designed to slow water flow and retain moisture within the peat structure. These interventions help support the regeneration of peat-forming vegetation while also contributing to carbon storage and biodiversity enhancement.
Working in extremely soft ground conditions required specialist plant and careful operational planning. Wide-track excavators were used to reduce ground pressure and allow safe, controlled construction within sensitive peatland environments.
At Tullybrick and Boorin, McFadden Civils constructed peat dams and carried out associated works including vegetation clearance and bank reprofiling. These measures improved water retention, stabilised ground conditions, and supported the natural regeneration of the bog habitat across multiple sites.
Brief Description
Client: Ulster Wildlife
Location: Northern Ireland – Boorin, Tullybrick & Haughey’s Bog
Role: Civil Engineering Contractor
Scope of Works
- Construction of peat dams to restore natural hydrology across degraded bogland
- Installation of large and standard peat dams at multiple peatland sites
- Use of wide-track excavators to safely operate on soft and sensitive ground conditions
- Vegetation clearance including removal of dense conifer plantations and low-density vegetation
- Bank reprofiling works to improve water retention and natural drainage patterns
- Careful handling and repositioning of peat and surface vegetation to support habitat regeneration
- Delivery of restoration works in environmentally sensitive landscapes while minimising ground disturbance
