The first dedicated management plan for the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has been launched, establishing a coordinated approach to conservation and development in one of Northern Ireland’s most significant landscapes.

Designated as an AONB in 1968, the Sperrins is one of eight such areas in the region but the only one not to have previously had its own management plan. The Sperrins Partnership, working alongside Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, announced the new plan covering the period 2026 to 2036 and an accompanying action plan for 2026 to 2031.

The plans were funded by DAERA through its Environment Fund Strategic Strand 2023-2028 and were shaped by an 18-month consultation involving communities, voluntary groups, businesses, landowners, councils and statutory bodies. They set out a long-term vision, mission and priorities for protecting and enhancing the area while supporting local economic activity and visitor engagement.

The management plan is intended to serve as a practical guide for residents, businesses and community groups and includes commitments to monitor and report on progress. The Sperrins Partnership said strong stakeholder relationships and ongoing engagement would be central to delivering the plan’s ambitions.

The document acknowledges that the Sperrins face environmental pressures, changing land-use demands and the need to secure future investment. The partnership stated it would seek additional funding to implement priority actions over the coming years.

Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir said the plan provided a clear framework for conserving and enhancing the nationally important landscape and reflected the value of collaboration and shared responsibility.