Habitat Destroyed by Cairngorms Fire to Be Restored with Government Funding

The Scottish government is spending more than £1 million to help nature recover across Scotland. Some of that money will go toward fixing habitats that were destroyed in a major wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park last July. The fire tore through a large area of hillside in a region called Abernethy, damaging wildlife homes and putting the land at greater risk of future fires. Officials say the funding will also support rivers, wildlife species, and the removal of plants and animals that don't belong in Scotland's natural environment.

A total of £150,100 has been set aside specifically for recovery work following the Abernethy wildfire. This money will help restore the habitats that were burned, support animals that were affected, and lower the chances of another wildfire happening in the same area. Workers will also replace wildlife-monitoring cameras that were ruined in the blaze. Another part of the project will restore a section of a stream called the Duack burn, which was damaged when emergency firebreaks were cut into the land to slow the fire.

Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin announced the funding at an international summit held in Armenia. She said that nature is tied to people's health, the economy, and everyday life, which is why protecting it matters so much. Martin added that the Cairngorms fire was one of the most serious wildfire events in Scotland in recent years. She also said that being at the summit alongside leaders from around the world reminded her that saving nature is a challenge that every country shares.

Grant Moir, the chief executive of the Cairngorms National Park Authority, called the funding a very welcome boost. He said the wildfire was heartbreaking for both the environment and for the communities that live near the park. He explained that the money will allow the park to work quickly with its partners and take action where it is needed most. He said the goal is to get nature recovery started as soon as possible.

Stuart MacQuarrie, a director at NatureScot, said the funding will help people all over Scotland take action for nature. He gave several examples, including helping to manage land for a rare bird called the chough on the island of Islay, restoring native oysters in Scotland's waters, and creating wildlife meadows in towns and cities. MacQuarrie said that by restoring diverse habitats, managing deer carefully, and dealing with invasive species, Scotland can look forward to a future where its nature is healthy. He said local efforts like these add up to make a national difference.

The money announced is part of a much larger £23 million nature restoration budget that Scotland has set for the year 2026–27. Officials say this investment shows Scotland's commitment to turning its goals for nature and climate into real action. The government hopes these projects will bring lasting benefits to the environment, wildlife, and communities across the country.