This campaign has now closed
Like humans, animals need to travel to thrive. They need safe, unbroken, linear routes, to forage, breed, raise young and rest. Paths of the National Cycle Network are perfect for this, so we want to invest in plants, trees, wildlife boxes and tools, to create safe spaces and increase biodiversity.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Situation
We face a climate crisis and ecological emergency. Loss of greenspace and habitat is contributing to a decline in UK biodiversity. Animals have to work harder to find places to feed and breed. Suitable places for bats and birds to roost or nest are declining, with habitat loss affecting amphibian populations. Dormice have fewer places to hibernate and foraging opportunities are scarce because hedgerows are disappearing. And humans need contact with nature too, for our physical and mental health.
Solution
We’re custodians of the National Cycle Network and as landowners we have a responsibility to make best use of our spaces, and we want to lead by example. Our in-house ecologists and volunteers are ready to develop spaces for wildlife. With funding for hedgerow planting, fruit trees, wildlife boxes and equipment, we will maximise biodiversity on at least 20 routes nationwide. With the right planting and shelters, linear walking and cycling paths can offer perfect habitats for so many species.
