Swift bricks to be installed on all new buildings in Scotland

3 hours ago

Swift bricks will become mandatory in all new buildings in Scotland after parliamentary approval.
The Scottish government and MSPs supported an amendment to require swift bricks in new dwellings where practical.
This contrasts with England's approach, where swift bricks are only part of planning guidance without legal obligation.
Swift populations have declined by 60% since 1995, placing them on the red list for conservation concern.
Campaigners urge England, Wales, and Northern Ireland to follow Scotland's lead to protect swifts and other cavity-nesting birds.
A 12-month consultation in Scotland will establish building standards for swift bricks, which also aid sparrows, starlings, and house martins.
Studies show that even when required, many bird and bat boxes are not installed in new housing developments.
Wildlife advocates highlight swift bricks as essential due to habitat loss from renovations and insulation schemes.
Gibraltar's long-standing swift brick policy has helped stabilize and increase local swift populations.

Hasty Briefsbeta