Innovative snake tunnels in Berkshire enable safe wildlife movement across roads to support protected habitats.
In a pioneering conservation effort within Berkshire’s Greenham and Crookham Commons, two specially designed adder underpasses have been installed to connect isolated populations of the UK’s only native venomous snake. This project marks the first use of such wildlife tunnels on UK roads, addressing the critical issue of habitat fragmentation caused by the Old Thornford Road, which previously separated these vulnerable snake groups.
From a construction management perspective, the installation of these 10-metre-long tunnels involved careful consideration of environmental and heritage factors. The structures incorporate features such as wing walls to guide the adders, gravel substrates for natural footing, and basking areas created by clearing surrounding vegetation. Removable grates allow for ongoing inspection and maintenance, ensuring the tunnels remain effective over time. These design elements reflect a sensitive approach to integrating modern infrastructure within protected heathland, a landscape of significant ecological and cultural importance in the Home Counties.
The success of this project demonstrates how construction management in heritage and conservation settings must balance technical requirements with ecological sensitivity. Coordinating with wildlife trusts and environmental agencies, managing site access to minimise disturbance, and selecting durable yet unobtrusive materials are essential practices. This initiative exemplifies how thoughtful construction management can facilitate biodiversity enhancement alongside infrastructure development, supporting the resilience of protected species and the preservation of heritage landscapes in Berkshire and the wider region.
Source: Construction Management
Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.