THE State has purchased a unique natural heritage site at White’s Marsh in Inchydoney for €800k.
The 98.5 acre habitat, which includes a grassland, a lagoon and a small forestry plantation, is located within the Clonakilty Bay special area of conservation.
Minister of State for Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan said the purchase of the site and its management by National Parks and Wildlife will strengthen how its unique wildlife and habitats will be protected into the future.
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‘By securing this important place for nature and biodiversity, we are protecting its wetlands, grasslands, and bird habitats,’ he added.
Not only is White’s Marsh rich in biodiversity, Deputy O’Sullivan said it is ‘historically significant, and deeply rooted in the culture and identity of Clonakilty.’
He said the purchase, management and carefully curated investment in the site will safeguard it for future generations, as well as making it a valuable and sustainable visitor destination.
The restoration of land within White’s Marsh to semi-natural habitats will enhance the habitat available for foraging and roosting wintering water birds in the area.
It will also expand the area of terrestrial wetlands and create habitats that are absent from the site at present, including freshwater pools and brackish scrapes.
This site is adjacent to Clogheen Marsh, which is owned by NPWS and was recently successfully restored as a semi-natural habitat to boost its biodiversity.
A spokesperson for the department confirmed that €800,000 was paid for White’s Marsh.vShe said: ‘This equates to just over 8,120 per acre for 98.5 acres.’
And she commented on the ‘huge value in the ecological potential of the site,’ which is situated on the edge of Clonakilty town and Inchydoney beach.
The spokesperson described it as ‘an unparalleled opportunity for large-scale nature restoration at the heart of West Cork’s community and coastline.’
‘With its strategic location and biodiversity potential, this is not just land — it’s an investment in restoring nature and connecting people with it right on their doorstep.’
