Campaigners Demand Restoration of Swift Nesting Holes in Derbyshire Viaduct

The recent refurbishment of a 160-year-old railway viaduct in Chapel Milton, Derbyshire, has sparked significant concern among wildlife advocates due to the blocking of swift nesting holes. The £7.5 million renovation, undertaken by Network Rail, began last summer while swifts were nesting, leading to the filling of three identified nesting sites with mortar. Campaigners argue that this action jeopardizes the breeding success of these birds, which have seen a dramatic decline in population.

The Guardian

Nature enthusiasts have expressed outrage after discovering that Network Rail blocked access to at least three swift nesting holes during the viaduct's refurbishment. Despite providing Network Rail with detailed information about the locations of these holes, campaigners reported that the holes were filled in February. Deb Pitman, a swift campaigner, highlighted the distressing consequences for swifts, stating that established breeding pairs often do not relocate successfully, leading to a halt in breeding when their nests are lost.

The Guardian

Network Rail initially claimed that an ecological report found no evidence of nesting swifts, a statement contested by local bird watchers who presented 38 pieces of evidence confirming the presence of nests. Following public outcry, Network Rail acknowledged the existence of swift holes and stated that they had implemented exclusion zones to protect the birds during the nesting season. A spokesperson for Network Rail mentioned, “We welcome the opportunity to work with local groups to make the viaduct a more welcoming habitat for swifts, including installing additional nest boxes alongside existing nest sites.”

The Guardian

Local advocates, including Jason Adshead from the Chapel-en-le-Frith Biodiversity Group, criticized Network Rail for not adequately addressing the nesting sites despite prior warnings. Adshead emphasized the importance of reopening the blocked holes before the swifts return in late April, stating, “Swifts are the sight and sound of summer and we are incredibly lucky to have them here.” Campaigners are planning a vigil beneath the viaduct to raise awareness and urge for the restoration of the nesting sites.

The Guardian

The swift population in Britain has declined by 66% from 1995 to 2022, primarily due to the loss of nesting sites in older buildings. The situation at the Chapel Milton viaduct exemplifies broader issues affecting these birds. While a national campaign in Scotland has successfully advocated for the inclusion of “swift bricks” in new housing, similar initiatives have not gained traction in Westminster, where proposals were rejected by the Labour government.

The Guardian

• “It’s utterly heartbreaking,” — Deb Pitman, Swift Campaigner

The Guardian

• “We sincerely hope they will arrange for the nest holes to be reopened before the birds return in numbers.” — Jason Adshead, Chapel-en-le-Frith Biodiversity Group

The Guardian

The ongoing situation at the Chapel Milton viaduct highlights the tension between infrastructure development and wildlife conservation, raising critical questions about the responsibilities of organizations like Network Rail in protecting vulnerable species.

The Guardian