Highways Agency - Safe roads, Reliable journeys, Informed travellers

Biodiversity

A badger tunnel in Cumbria, one of a series which help reduce fatalities of these animals on our roads.

Issue

Although modern road design has been greatly improved, both new and existing roads can have serious implications for wildlife and nature conservation if care is not taken over route planning, construction, operation and maintenance.

Objective

To manage our network in a practical way which promotes the maintenance and enhancement of biodiversity - that is to say the variety of life. In particular we seek to manage our own estate so as to add to its existing value as a refuge and a linking feature for wildlife.

Actions will include:

• Developing a biodiversity action plan for the management of our soft estate - the land surrounding our network - founded on the Government's action plans to protect species and habitats.
• Working with English Nature and other partners on a programme of research to develop understanding of biodiversity in the context of highways management.
• Implementing a programme of engineering measures to protect wildlife from road traffic where highways cross their habitats e.g. otters.
   

Bathampton Meadows, created as part of the A4 Batheaston bypass, are an excellent example of biodiversity.