An initiative to encourage marine species to colonise purpose-built rock pools is now under way on Strangford Lough. Ten Vertipools have been mounted on the club's seawall at Whiterock.

The honeycomb-like concrete units, designed by Artecology, have been installed under the 'Greening the Grey' programme led by Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark with the Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership. A similar scheme on the Isle of Wight UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve has already proved successful.

Thought to be the first installation of its kind in Northern Ireland, the Vertipools retain seawater at low tide to mimic natural rock pools, offering shelter for barnacles, seaweed, crabs and starfish and turning a hard seawall into a more diverse coastal habitat. The pilot aims to enhance biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience and raise awareness of the lough's marine environment. The pools are expected to provide refuge for species affected by climate change and rising sea temperatures, while increasing species diversity along the seawall.

Extensive planning and marine licensing were completed to ensure the works accord with Strangford Lough's protected environmental designations. If the trial is successful, partners hope to roll out similar projects across the Geopark area.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, who helped attach the artificial rock pools to the seawall at Whiterock said, "This scheme not only provides a new home for a range of marine life but will prove to be an invaluable educational resource as well.

He added: "Vertipools can attract sea creatures which thrive in their crevices but aren't found elsewhere on the seawall and maybe more of these artificial rock pools will be located across our coastline to provide a fascinating insight into our rich marine life. This is an excellent initiative."

Cllr Campbell also highlighted the district's beautiful coastline and waterways rich in marine life, saying the new Vertipools offer a window on what is happening beneath the surface.