Home / Environment / Wildlife Bridge Connects Surrey Heathlands
Wildlife Bridge Connects Surrey Heathlands
27 May
Summary
- A new £3.7m bridge connects two protected heathland sites in Surrey.
- Sand lizards, deer, and badgers are already using the wildlife crossing.
- The UK's first heathland bridge provides a pedestrian and animal pathway.
A new £3.7 million wildlife crossing, the United Kingdom's first heathland bridge, has been inaugurated near Cobham, Surrey. This innovative structure spans the A3, reconnecting Wisley Common and Ockham Common, two vital protected heathland areas that have been divided since the 1970s.
Wildlife, including sand lizards, deer, and badgers, have been observed using the 223ft (68m) Cockrow Bridge, which opened recently. Turf from the commons was used to create a natural habitat on the bridge, encouraging animal use. This eco-friendly development not only benefits wildlife but also includes a path for pedestrians and cyclists.
Engineers also incorporated surplus sand from M25 widening works to enhance the approach to the bridge. Three universities are collaborating to monitor the 30m-wide (98ft) structure's effectiveness. This project is part of broader improvements at junction 10 of the M25, which are nearing completion.
