Road to recovery for species on the verge

Motorway verges are to be protected as havens for falcons, orchids and dormice in plans by National Highways to map the national road network.

Charts being developed by Manchester Metropolitan University will help the agency identify important habitats for protected species beside 4,300 miles of motorways and A-roads.

National Highways said verges and the areas surrounding them were “often undisturbed by humans” and could be ideal for the flora and fauna.

It is the first time the entire network has been mapped for habitats, and is being carried out as the agency attempts to reduce the impact of fast, busy roads on wildlife.