£1.85m invested in restoring nature across the Highlands

This latest move builds on significant progress made through the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund (NRF), a programme designed to address biodiversity loss, restore habitats, and safeguard wildlife. Since 2021, Highland Council has secured an impressive £1.85 million through the fund, supporting a wide range of projects that are delivering meaningful environmental benefits across the region.

Strong investment supporting local action

A key feature of the programme is its focus on empowering local communities. To date, more than £918,000 has been committed to community grants, enabling 96 projects led by 45 organisations to take practical, on-the-ground action.

During the 2025/26 period alone, £323,584 has been allocated to community-led initiatives. Projects supported this year highlight the diversity of environmental work underway, including:

• Native oyster restoration in Lochaber
• Dune resilience work in Nairn
• Woodland regeneration schemes
• Wildflower meadow creation
• River and habitat restoration projects across the Highlands

These initiatives not only protect and restore ecosystems but also bring social benefits, including improved wellbeing, strengthened community pride, and increased environmental awareness.

Council-led projects complement community efforts

Alongside community grants, Highland Council continues to deliver a range of in-house environmental projects. These include tree planting, grassland management, invasive species removal, biodiversity planning, and the development of nature networks to improve ecological connectivity.

This dual approach—combining grassroots initiatives with council-led action—ensures that restoration efforts are coordinated and impactful, contributing to long-term sustainability goals across the region.

Positive impact recognised by councillors

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, highlighted the tangible benefits already being delivered through the fund. He noted that the programme is supporting “practical action on the ground” that restores habitats, protects species, and strengthens the natural environment, while also enhancing community wellbeing and local pride.

The breadth of projects funded demonstrates the strong commitment of communities across the Highlands to tackling climate change and biodiversity loss, with local groups playing a central role in driving positive change.

Looking ahead: continued commitment and flexibility

In approving the latest report, committee members agreed to maintain existing governance arrangements for future funding, allowing for efficient decision-making and timely delivery of projects. They also endorsed a flexible approach to future allocations, ensuring that funding can be directed where it is most needed, including council-led projects if overall resources are reduced.

The committee further emphasised the importance of continuing work already underway, such as:

• Developing Local Nature Conservation Sites
• Expanding nature network mapping
• Exploring the creation of a Local Environmental Records Centre

A greener future for Highland communities

The continued investment in nature restoration highlights Highland Council’s long-term commitment to protecting its unique landscapes while supporting resilient, sustainable communities. By combining funding, local engagement, and strategic planning, the region is making meaningful progress in reversing biodiversity loss and strengthening its natural environment for future generations.

As projects continue to take shape across the Highlands, the programme stands as a strong example of how collaborative, community-driven action can deliver lasting environmental and social benefits.

A further report on 2025/26 allocations will be presented to a future meeting of the Committee.

Link to report approved by the Committee