National Highways along with The Wildlife Trusts have been named the overall winner at the 2025 Biodiversity Challenge Awards for the delivery of a nationwide nature programme that planted over 13,000 trees, restored 35km of rivers and streams, and improved habitats across more than 2,300 acres of land including a project at Shap Fells restoring peat bogs to lock away carbon to combat climate change and support wetland wildlife.
Chosen from 48 entries, National Highways’ successful five-year Network for Nature programme brought together dozens of projects to help restore natural environments and support local wildlife.
From bringing back grazing animals to restoring natural balance in grasslands, to reconnecting habitats and improving spaces for birds and butterflies to thrive, the programme worked with The Wildlife Trusts to deliver targeted improvements through 51 projects across 46 sites - each tailored to the needs of local landscapes and species. It also enriched communities by creating training opportunities for local volunteers and enhanced natural spaces for people to enjoy.
Steve Elderkin, National Highways’ Director of Environmental Sustainability, said:
“National Highways plays a vital role in shaping the landscapes that our motorways and major A-roads pass through. Through our partnership with The Wildlife Trusts, we’ve delivered projects that restore habitats, boost biodiversity, and support local communities.
“Over the past five years, the Network for Nature programme has made a meaningful contribution to nature recovery and reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring infrastructure development supports a healthier, more resilient environment for now and future generations.”
Cath Hare, Head of Grants at The Wildlife Trust, said: "England is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world, with remnants of wildlife habitat isolated across land and sea. At least 32% of terrestrial and freshwater species have declined, and 13% of species are threatened with extinction.
We're delighted that this programme has created and enhanced a variety of flora and fauna across a range of different habitats in England to help nature's recovery. Great things are rarely achieved alone, and Network for Nature is a true testament to partnership working."
The 2025 Biodiversity Challenge Awards are an initiative by the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA) to recognise and celebrate projects in the construction industry that enhance biodiversity beyond standard practice.
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