House builders ordered to protect wildlife

Communities Secretary James Brokenshire has ordered developers to do more to protect Britain’s cherished wildlife, recommending ‘hedgehog highways’ for new housing estates.

Following growing public interest for protecting specific species, the  government has set out its expectations on how to protect them for the first time, including using ‘hedgehog highways’ and hollow swift bricks – which are installed into the walls of new build homes, allowing the birds to nest safely.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government announcement also includes greater emphasis on using innovative ways to allow nature to thrive - such as drainage areas to create attractive wetlands for birds and amphibians to live alongside people.

Brokenshire said: “Building the new homes this country needs must not come at the detriment of our natural heritage. It’s right that as we deliver houses for people, we must also provide homes for wildlife too - whether that’s for hedgehogs, frogs, newts or birds.

“The public have told us that protecting wildlife is important to them – so my message to house builders is to harness this support and get building in a way that protects the environment for the next generation.”