Epsom & Ewell Councillor Kim Spickett has been working with local residents to help swifts, house sparrows and starlings nest safely in Cuddington. 

Residents, some having lived in the area for more than 40 years, had noticed a decline in bird species in the area*. They wanted to encourage these species back.

Together with their local councillor Kim Spickett, and with support from County Councillor Eber Kington, the group successfully applied for a grant to buy materials for volunteers to make nest boxes, made with help and guidance from by Epsom Repair Café.

In January a volunteer installed the new nest boxes on houses, in time for nesting season. A second installation day is planned and there is a waiting list of people who are keen to support local wildlife by having nest boxes installed on their houses. 

The group are adding hedgehogs to their remit, monitoring hedgehog sightings, and setting up feeding stations and hedgehog houses. They have also been in touch with the Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Countryside Team, who have shared information about a project in Horton where nesting cups have provided a habitat for house martins. 

“I would advise anyone to get together with their neighbours and get something going.

Even a small number of houses per street taking part will make a big difference.”

Matt, Cuddington resident.

If you’d like to find out more about how you can support local wildlife and biodiversity, get in touch. Email contactus@epsom-ewell.gov.uk

*As houses are extended and modernised, traditional nesting spots in houses such as roof eaves and soffits are sealed and no longer suitable for nesting. Nest boxes and “Bird Bricks” (bricks that allow birds to nest inside wall cavities) can help provide a place for birds to nest.