Progress in biodiversity initiatives being advanced as part of a significant Cornish renovation program
A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross Retrofit Project Begins in Cornwall
Construction has commenced on a significant retrofit project in Cornwall, with the aim of upgrading the A30 from Chiverton to Carland Cross. This undertaking, expected to leave a lasting legacy, is not just about improving infrastructure but also about protecting and enhancing the environment and ecology of the area.
The project, overseen by Nick Simmonds-Screech, Project Director for National Highways, is making concerted efforts to safeguard the local ecology and environment. To this end, thirty-three multi-species crossing points are being constructed to improve connectivity for wildlife, enabling the journeys of animals such as otters, badgers, bats, and reptiles.
In addition to these crossing points, eight miles of traditional Cornish hedging will be created as part of the project. This traditional hedging, along with the restoration of existing hedging and the relocation of a section of property heathland habitat near Carland Cross, are examples of the environmental protection efforts being made.
To ensure the safety of native species during the construction process, a team of environment consultants from Truro-based Spalding Associates has been responsible for rescuing adders, grass snakes, slow worms, and common lizards from the heathland before it was cut into turfs. The rescued animals were then placed in a local animal shelter.
The project is also making strides in biodiversity, aiming to achieve a 20% net gain. This ambitious target is supported by the use of Cornish hedging and heathland relocation, as well as the creation of the thirty-three wildlife crossing points.
The road design uses locally quarried stone and local labor and expertise, ensuring a sense of authenticity and sustainability. The project is partly funded by an £8m contribution from the European Regional Development Fund, reflecting a broader commitment to environmental and economic development.
This project is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it aims to unlock one of the last major bottlenecks in the country, promoting economic growth, improving journey times, and increasing safety. By addressing some collapsed sections during the winter and progressing with building work with contractors, the project is well on its way to achieving these goals.
Ultimately, the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross Retrofit Project seeks to leave a lasting legacy that benefits biodiversity in the location, demonstrating that infrastructure development and environmental protection can go hand in hand.
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