Works starts on dual-deck green wildlife bridge

Work has started on the second green bridge in Cornwall, National Highways has said.

As part of the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross dualling project, a dual-deck bridge has been constructed over the new carriageway to provide safe passage for wildlife.

National Highways said top soiling work was underway to turn the bridge at Marazanvose "from grey to brown, followed by green planting in the autumn".

Andrew Alcorn, National Highways' programme manager for the scheme, said he was "really proud of the environmental work being carried out" as part of the project.

Mr Alcorn said: "Our green bridge will be the third for the company, one of only a handful across the country, and once completed it will provide a safe crossing for various species of wildlife, as well as for walkers and horse riders.

"Along with other environmental measures, we've built a total of 33 multi-species crossing points as part of the project, and we look forward to seeing the bridge bloom for many years to come, providing a real legacy for the scheme and for Cornwall."

The Marazanvose bridge, which is 49.3m (161ft) long and 12.5m (41ft) wide, spans four lanes of the new dual carriageway and two lanes of the old A30, now the B3288.

It is hoped the green bridge will cater for species including badgers, voles and other small animals, insects and birds.

National Highways said landscaping will involve the planting of two native hedgerows with species including hazel, hawthorn, holly, dog rose, elder and wych elm.

It said: "Planting work will take place in the autumn, along with seeding, and after all planting work across the scheme, a five-year maintenance period will follow to ensure the successful bedding in and growth of all new trees and shrubs.

"As part of the road scheme, a total of 87,000 trees are being planted across the landscape in addition to the green bridge planting, and with over 40,000 already in the ground, the remainder will be installed in suitable conditions later this year."

The A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross dual carriageway was opened to traffic last June.

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].