The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has set out ambitious plans to transform one of England’s most significant upland sites into a thriving nature reserve.

Following the purchase of additional land at RSPB Geltsdale in Cumbria last November, the conservation body has announced a series of measures designed to restore and enhance the reserve’s biodiversity.

Describing the acquisition as a “landmark step” in protecting the area, the RSPB intends to plant thousands of native trees, install leaky dams to re-wet peatlands, and reintroduce threatened species, such as water voles.

Work is already underway on the initiative, which seeks to create a “Pennines paradise” for nature and people, and is expected to span five years.

Key measures include restoring peatlands by installing leaky dams to stabalise and rejuvenate these vital habitats, aiding carbon storage and water retention. The charity will also create upland hay meadows rich in wildflowers, including orchids, lady’s mantle and yellow rattle, to support pollinators.

Thousands of native trees, including aspen, downy birch and rowan, will also be planted in moorland cloughs, enhancing connectivity for wildlife and helping create a mosaic of upland habitats.

To encourage the breeding of birds of prey, specifically designed platforms will be installed to attract ospreys to nest at the reserve, and work will be carried out to conserve and restore populations of black grouse.

Watercourses, such as Howgill Beck, will also be restored to their natural meandering state, to help slow the flow of water running from the site and creating pools to support diverse wildlife.

The final purchase included the last third of the Tarnhouse Farm estate and shooting rights over the entirety of Geltsdale, securing the reserve’s future as a protected site.

The project represents a major step in large-scale ecological restoration in England, offering a blueprint for the revitalisation of upland landscapes across the country.

Image credit: RSPB