New Biodiversity Action Plan sets out clear targets for 2025-31

The Westmeath County Council Biodiversity Action Plan 2025–2031 launched at Belvedere House and Gardens on Friday 15 May sets out a clear roadmap to protect and enhance the county’s natural environment over the coming years.

The plan, which was endorsed by the full council on 23 February, outlines a series of practical actions aimed at addressing biodiversity loss while supporting climate resilience and sustainable development across the county.

Westmeath is home to a rich and diverse natural heritage from its internationally important lakes such as Lough Ennell, Lough Owel and Lough Derravaragh to its peatlands, wetlands, farmland and extensive network of hedgerows, and the new plan recognises the importance of protecting those habitats while also enhancing biodiversity across the wider landscape, including in towns and villages.

Speaking at the launch, council chief executive Barry Kehoe described the plan as “a significant step forward in how we integrate biodiversity into all aspects of the council’s work from planning and infrastructure to land management and community initiatives”.

He added that the plan places a strong emphasis on delivery, with clear actions and partnerships to ensure meaningful outcomes on the ground.

An Cathaoirleach Cllr Aoife Davitt highlighted the importance of local engagement in shaping the plan. “Biodiversity is something that people across Westmeath value deeply in our lakes, our peatlands, our farmland and our communities,” she said. “This plan reflects that shared commitment and shows how local action can make a real difference.”

Christina Sweeney, biodiversity officer, speaking at the event, said that the plan reflects a collaborative approach to biodiversity across the county. “This plan has been shaped through strong engagement with communities, stakeholders and state agencies, and it provides a practical framework for action over the coming years. The focus now is on delivery and ensuring that we see real benefits for biodiversity on the ground.”

Westmeath County Council acknowledged the contribution of the Biodiversity Working Group, whose input and guidance were instrumental in progressing the plan through its development and adoption. The council also thanked the Heritage Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, community groups, landowners and stakeholders who participated in the process.

The Biodiversity Action Plan also supports the council’s wider climate objectives, recognising the role of nature-based solutions in areas such as flood management, carbon storage and climate resilience.

The ccouncil will now move to implement the plan over the period to 2031, working in partnership with communities and agencies to deliver positive outcomes for biodiversity across County Westmeath.

• The plan is available to view on the Westmeath County Council website: westmeathcoco.ie/en/ourservices/planning/biodiversity/actionplan2025-2031.