We are aware that there are concerns over the use of netting to a hedgerow which was installed in advance of the new junction to the Health Innovation Campus being created from the A6. We are looking into the condition of the netting as a priority and ensuring any holes are repaired.

The University originally installed netting to discourage nesting birds from creating a nest in a hedge which will be removed in a few months. A consultant ecologist is undertaking routine inspections of the site, including the hedgerows and trees to ensure that the ecological value of the campus is being protected as far as possible. As part of the Health Innovation Campus project, we will be planting over 650 linear metres of new hedgerow and there will be a total of 195 new trees planted around the new building. These additions to the landscape will only serve to enhance the biodiversity of the site and encourage more birds, insects, small mammals and butterflies to inhabit the campus.

The University takes its ecological and environmental management very seriously and we work hard to balance this priority with development of campus to meet the needs of our staff and a growing student population. If you have further concerns please don’t hesitate to email facilities.helpdesk@lancaster.ac.uk.