Client: National Trust, administered by Cumbria Wildlife Trust
Area: Approximately 62 hectares
Altitude: 240–540 metres
Specialism: Peatland Restoration

Project Overview

TM Lindsay Ltd delivered extensive peatland restoration works across approximately 62 hectares of degraded upland peat at Moasdale and Hard Knott Fell in the Upper Duddon Valley.

The project focused on restoring the natural hydrology of the peatland, stabilising areas affected by erosion and creating the conditions required for long-term habitat recovery.

The Challenge

Working at elevations of up to 540 metres presented significant logistical and operational challenges. Access was via existing tracks across open moorland, with steep terrain, deep wet peat, exposed working areas and rapidly changing weather conditions all requiring careful management.

The Hard Knott Fell section was prioritised early in the programme due to its particularly exposed location and more challenging access.

Our Delivery

Using specialist low-ground-pressure machinery, our team carried out a combination of reprofiling, dam construction, peat-pipe blocking and surface-water management.

Approximately 1,783 metres of eroded hags and gullies were reprofiled, helping to stabilise exposed peat surfaces and reconnect eroded features with the surrounding landscape.

Around 144 peat, timber and combination dams were installed, alongside peat-pipe blocking and the reinstatement of sink holes.

On flatter areas, approximately 2,630 metres of arc bunding was constructed to retain surface water and support the rewetting of the peat.