Network Rail: Unblock the swift nesting holes

Network Rail: Reopen Swift Nesting Holes at Chapel Milton Viaduct

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Dear Network Rail,

We are writing to demand immediate action to address the blocking of known swift nesting sites at Chapel Milton viaduct in Derbyshire.

Despite clear evidence being provided by local campaigners, including detailed identification of at least nine nesting sites, multiple swift nesting holes were filled with mortar during recent refurbishment works. This decision has removed access to sites that have been used by returning swifts for generations.

Swifts are a red-listed species in the UK, having declined by 66% since 1995, largely due to the loss of nesting habitat. They are highly site-faithful birds that return to the same nesting entrance year after year. When that access point is blocked, breeding pairs often fail to relocate and may stop breeding altogether.

This situation was entirely avoidable. The nesting sites were known. The information was shared. The solution was simple.

There is still time to put this right. Swifts are now returning to the UK, and the blocked nesting holes can and must be reopened immediately to allow access before the breeding season is lost.

We are calling on Network Rail to:

Urgently reopen all blocked swift nesting holes at Chapel Milton
Ensure no further nesting sites are sealed during maintenance or repair works
Work transparently with local wildlife groups to identify and protect nesting locations
Commit to long-term protection of swift nesting sites across all Network Rail infrastructure

This is a straightforward issue with a clear solution. It requires immediate action, not future promises.

We urge you to act now and prevent an entirely avoidable loss.

Yours sincerely,

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Network Rail: Reopen Swift Nesting Holes at Chapel Milton Viaduct

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