Tóchar is proud to be leading the development of a restoration plan for Pollardstown Fen — Ireland’s largest calcareous fen and a unique wetland complex in County Kildare, near Newbridge.

Covering 200 hectares, Pollardstown has a long and diverse history — from drainage and grazing to vegetable growing, water-mill power, and even supplying the Grand Canal. It is also famous for its association with the rare Vertigo snail species.

Today, our work brings a holistic focus to the fen, integrating ecological and hydrological data. This is vital because Pollardstown supports three Annex I habitats under the EU Habitats Directive:

•       Alkaline fen

•       Calcareous fen with Cladium mariscus

•       Petrifying springs with tufa formation

It is also home to several Annex II species, including three rare and declining Vertigo snails (Vertigo geyeri, Vertigo moulinsiana, and Vertigo angustior).

The fen’s unique ecology is sustained by the Curragh aquifer, feeding at least 40 calcareous springs and seepage zones, which in turn connect to an extensive network of drainage channels. The Milltown Feeder canal — historically known as “the Grand supply” — carries this water into the Grand Canal system, ensuring navigation under the stewardship of Waterways Ireland.

Last week, we took an important step forward: a technical and onsite meeting with NPWS, Waterways Ireland, Wetland Surveys Ireland, and RPS. Together, we discussed the delicate hydrological balance of Pollardstown, the needs of its habitats and species, and the water supply required for the Grand Canal.

This collaboration marks the beginning of a long-term effort to secure the future of both this extraordinary fen and the communities and waterways that depend on it.