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£166,000 Bat Relocation Sparks Debate in M5 Upgrade

3/31/2026

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Story summary
  • The £166,000 cost for bat roosts is part of a £372 million road upgrade at M5 junction 10, to finish in three years.
  • Lib Dem councillor Julian Tooke says relocating bats is necessary because 12 of 14 national species are present.
  • Reform UK councillor Vernon Smith criticizes the cost and urges more economical solutions.
  • Tooke notes the council has a legal obligation and has obtained four quotes.