Concerns Raised Over Displacement of Nesting Swifts in Dorking After Demolition
Swifts 'displaced' after demolition - campaigners
The Bbc
Image: The Bbc
Campaigners in Dorking, England, claim that nesting swifts may have been displaced due to the demolition of a building during their migration season. The local council has issued a temporary stop notice while investigating compliance with wildlife laws.
- 01A section of a building in Dorking was demolished, displacing swifts that had nested there for years.
- 02Photographer Amy Brewer documented swifts attempting to return to their nests after the wall was removed.
- 03Dorking Swift Conservation warns that the established colony could be lost, as swifts are loyal to their nesting sites.
- 04Clarion Housing Group stated that ecological checks were conducted prior to demolition, but campaigners argue that nests were present.
- 05Mole Valley District Council is examining whether planning requirements were followed and may take action if violations are found.
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Campaigners in Dorking, England, are raising alarms after the demolition of part of a building during the swifts' migration season reportedly displaced nesting birds. The demolition, which took place at Station Approach, involved the removal of a wall containing crevices used by swifts for nesting. Photographer Amy Brewer observed swifts trying to return to their nests, expressing concern over their displacement. Julia Hemsley from Dorking Swift Conservation emphasized that swifts are loyal to their nesting sites and warned that losing their nests could prevent them from breeding again. Clarion Housing Group, the developer, stated that ecological checks were conducted before the demolition, but campaigners claim that nests were present. Mole Valley District Council has issued a temporary stop notice and is investigating compliance with wildlife laws. The council's cabinet member for planning noted that while nesting bird checks are required, there is no absolute prohibition on demolition during the nesting season. The situation highlights the tension between development and wildlife conservation in urban areas.
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The displacement of swifts could affect local biodiversity and disrupt the ecological balance in Dorking.
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