Former dairy farm could become peat research centre

A former dairy farm could be transformed into an "internationally recognised hub for research", focused on restoring lowland peat bogs.

Somerset Wildlife Trust has submitted a planning application to convert and redevelop the existing farm buildings at Honeygar Farm in Westhay.

The land, situated on the Somerset Levels and Moors, is one of the few areas in the UK that still holds deep lowland peat - which are waterlogged wetland ecosystems.

Georgia Dent, CEO of the trust, said the research project could help find solutions to challenges such as adapting to climate change and improving water quality.

Since acquiring the site in 2021, the trust has been allowing nature to recover with low-intensity grazing and stabilising water levels for peatland restoration.

Lowland peatlands found at low altitudes (<150m) that form over thousands of years as dead plant material accumulates in waterlogged, acidic conditions.

According to the United Nations, peatlands cover just 3% of the earth's land surface but store more carbon than all the world's forests combined.

Despite this, the majority of the limited research and restoration has focused on upland sites.

Honeygar offers a rare opportunity to generate robust, real-world evidence about how lowland peatlands can be managed in ways that support wildlife, sustainable land use and local economies.

"We want Honeygar to become an internationally recognised hub for research, innovation, and collaboration," Dent said.

"We know how important and precious peatlands are, and that sensitive management can help find solutions to some of our biggest challenges such as adapting to climate change and improving water quality.

"Honeygar will bring researchers, academics, land managers and conservationists together with businesses, land agents and other professionals to collaborate, share learning and rise to the challenges we face locally and nationally."

The planning application also includes public access along a circular walk, viewing areas, public toilets, spares to hire and restoration of the existing orchard.

The plans will now be considered by the local planning authority as part of the statutory planning process.

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