Jon Pearce MP takes swift action to protect wildlife at Chapel Milton Viaduct 

High Peak MP Jon Pearce has welcomed progress towards finding a solution to the blocking of Swift nesting holes at Chapel Milton Viaduct.

This has become a national story, with local residents, environmentalists and bird lovers from High Peak and across the country anxious about that the Swifts’ ancestral nests had been blocked by Network Rail during repair works at the Chapel Milton Viaduct.

Having had this issue raised with him, Jon took up the case with Network Rail, government ministers and High Peak Borough Council. He is hopeful that a conclusion has now been reached. Swift nesting boxes, recommended by the RSPB, are being installed this week to support returning birds.

In addition, planning application has been submitted to High Peak Borough Council for Listed Building Consent to reopen a number of discrete nesting holes in areas highlighted by local campaigners.

Jon Pearce MP said:

“Local residents and conservation groups raised important concerns to me regarding the repair works at Chapel Milton Viaduct and how this will affect our local Swift population. I immediately took it up with Network Rail, government ministers and High Peak Borough Council.

“In High Peak we love our wildlife and take extra steps to keep it safe. The proposal to install swift boxes is a big win in keeping these much-loved birds safe.

“I am delighted that we are just awaiting approval from High Peak Borough Council. I will keep the pressure on as we need these nesting holes reopened before the swifts return. I will continue working with local organisations to protect the wildlife in High Peak.”