Sawtry housebuilder puts hedgehogs in the fast lane

- 09 Feb 21

Hedgehog highways have been installed at a new housing development in Sawtry as part of a campaign to help conserve the much-loved creatures. The highways - low-tech holes placed at ground level in fencing and other barriers – are being created at Bovis Homes’ Judith Gardens development, off Gidding Road, to give hedgehogs access between gardens and wilder areas. The initiative is part of a wider national project agreed between Vistry Group and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society to protect the endangered animals. By allowing hedgehogs to roam freely at night, the holes will enable the prickly creatures to find enough food, mates and shelter – and to preserve their natural habitat. Hannah Dorner, sales manager for at Vistry's East Midlands region, said: “We are very pleased that Judith Gardens is involved in this brilliant effort to protect one of the nation’s favourite animals, a scheme that demonstrates our commitment to building sustainably. “Conserving Britain’s natural habitats is extremely important to us, so we are proud to be implementing this simple measure that will have long-lasting benefits for hedgehogs and other wildlife.” Bovis Homes is building 295 properties at Judith Gardens, comprising a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom houses. Work has been progressing well at the site since its launch last September, with the first residents expected to move in this spring. Plaques will be installed next to the hedgehog highways created throughout the development to inform residents of their significance to ensure they don’t get blocked or filled in. Hannah said: “The hedgehog highways scheme is a nice opportunity for nature-loving residents to learn more about the wildlife in their gardens and to see how small changes like this can help to support efforts to conserve the hedgehog population. “We look forward to welcoming the first residents to Judith Gardens in the coming months, and we hope that they will enjoy living at this hedgehog-friendly development.” To find out more information about the homes available at Judith Gardens, visit bovishomes.co.uk.