National Highways doubles green bridge projects to boost biodiversity
National Highways is expanding its portfolio of ‘green bridges’ across England’s Strategic Road Network, with three new structures under construction to support wildlife connectivity and nature recovery.
The new crossings—on the A30 in Cornwall, the A417 near Gloucester and the M25 at Wisley—will double the current number of green bridges in the UK within two years. They follow earlier builds over the A21 at Scotney Castle and the A556 near Chester.
Green bridges, also known as wildlife crossings, provide safe routes for animals and people over major roads. They are designed to link fragmented habitats, reduce roadkill, and improve road safety while integrating highways into the wider landscape.
“While roads have always connected people and places, they are too often a barrier for nature,” said Steve Elderkin, director of environmental sustainability at National Highways. “Our green bridges are designed to blend with the landscape and connect habitats, animals and people, leaving a lasting legacy which ensures nature thrives.”
Project highlights:
- A30 Marazanvose green bridge, Cornwall – Constructed by Costain as part of the Chiverton to Carland Cross upgrade. At 49.3 m long and 12.5 m wide, it will be planted in autumn and support badgers, voles, insects, birds, as well as walkers and horse riders.
- Cockrow Bridge, M25 J10 Wisley, Surrey – A 68 m crossing installed in January 2025 to reunite heathland on Wisley and Ockham Commons. It will be covered with native heathland species.
- Gloucestershire Way crossing, A417 Missing Link – Kier will lift in 10 steel beams this summer to form the 60 m long, 37 m wide bridge deck. Once planted, the crossing will serve walkers, cyclists, horses, and a wide range of wildlife.
These projects coincide with National Highways’ Nature Week and form part of its wider environmental programme. The agency manages over 30,000 hectares of land, much of which supports diverse habitats along road verges and corridor spaces.
Its Network for Nature initiative—delivered with The Wildlife Trusts—has funded 40 habitat restoration schemes worth £11.56 million. Other projects include wetland creation in Norfolk, woodland restoration in Cornwall, and bison reintroduction in Kent.
Elderkin added: “We’re prioritising nature-based solutions and working closely with conservation partners to address environmental pressures while maintaining safe, efficient infrastructure.”
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