SP Energy Networks is supporting a new peatland restoration initiative at Buccleuch's Queensberry Estate in the Lowther Hills near Drumlanrig Castle, Dumfries & Galloway, to reduce flood risk and revive natural habitats across the South of Scotland.

As part of its commitment to communities, wildlife and natural habitats, the company is supporting work to restore 46 hectares of degraded peatland. The programme is designed to slow the movement of water through the landscape and lessen local flood risk.

Covering an area larger than 60 football pitches, the restoration is also expected to enhance water quality and keep rivers such as the River Nith cleaner, benefiting local wildlife and fisheries.

Historically, sections of the estate's upland peat were degraded, allowing water to run off more quickly into surrounding valleys and rivers. In recent years, this has contributed to higher flows affecting homes and businesses downstream.

The project will re-wet the bog, enabling the peat to absorb and hold water like a sponge in the upper catchment where water first gathers. By slowing run-off, it should stabilise local streams and reduce sudden surges, lowering flood risk for nearby communities and wildlife. Surveys and restoration works were carried out and managed by the Crichton Carbon Centre, whose expertise has been integral to the project.

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Adrian Dolby, Head of Agriculture at Buccleuch, said: "This is an important area within the Queensberry Estate that has been significantly impacted by historic land management practices.

"By restoring the peatland, we are helping to reinstate its natural ability to hold water, reducing flooding and supporting the return of wildlife habitats. We're proud to be working with SP Energy Networks on a project that delivers long-term benefits for both the environment and local communities."

Healthy peatlands support a rich variety of plants and wildlife. Restoring them helps prevent the loss of peat and creates the right conditions for upland vegetation and species to thrive once more.

The scheme marks the first collaboration of its kind between SP Energy Networks and Buccleuch Estate, with additional opportunities for nature restoration and biodiversity enhancement under exploration.

Gill Renwick, SPT Sustainability Manager at SP Energy Networks, added: "Our communities are at the heart of everything we do and we're committed to playing our part in supporting both climate resilience for those living and working nearby, and the protection of local wildlife.

"Projects like this show how restoring natural landscapes can help reduce flood risk and bring real benefits for local communities. We're pleased to see the work is progressing well. This will help protect homes and businesses for generations to come."

The restoration involves carefully designed techniques to slow water flow and reprofile drainage channels, with specialist contractors using low-impact machinery appropriate for sensitive peatland environments.

The project forms part of SP Energy Networks' Action Plan for Nature, which aims to ensure infrastructure investment protects and enhances the natural environment while providing a reliable electricity network.