- Councillor Stuart Allen is calling for a citywide network of hedgehog highways to help reconnect habitats and support struggling hedgehog populations.
- Hedgehog numbers have fallen from 30 million in the 1950s to under 1 million today, partly due to concrete gravel boards blocking their natural pathways and forcing them onto roads.
- Cllr. Allen’s motion, set for debate on March 20, proposes grants and awareness campaigns to encourage hedgehog-friendly gardens and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.
In a bid to restore reducing hedgehog populations, Councillor Stuart Allen, Green Party for Leigh Ward, has submitted a motion calling for the creation of a city-wide network of hedgehog highways, helping hedgehogs move more easily between gardens and making our streets greener and more wildlife-friendly.
The UK’s hedgehog population has plummeted over the past six decades. Once estimated at 30 million in the 1950s, the number has now dropped to fewer than one million across England, Scotland, and Wales. One major factor in this decline is the widespread use of concrete gravel boards, which seal off the natural pathways between gardens, forcing hedgehogs onto roads and leaving populations increasingly isolated.
Hedgehogs play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, acting as natural pest controllers by feeding on slugs, snails, and caterpillars. Their presence supports biodiversity and soil health, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
“When was the last time you saw a hedgehog? We need to act now to reverse their decline. I am bringing this motion to Full Council to raise awareness and provide grants to support hedgehog-friendly initiatives – whether that’s replacing gravel boards with accessible alternatives or encouraging residents to create more welcoming spaces for them. These wonderful creatures are not only a gardener’s best ally but a vital part of our local environment. More hedgehogs mean fewer chemicals in the soil.”
Cllr Stuart Allen, Leigh Ward
Cllr. Allen’s motion, seconded by Independent Councillor Susan Badger, will be debated at Full Council on 20 March. If passed, the initiative could mark a significant step toward making the city a more hospitable place for its disappearing hedgehog population.
– ENDS –
Notes to editor:
Cllr Allen’s motion states:
This Council notes that hedgehog populations in England have experienced a significant decline over the past six decades. In the 1950s, it was estimated that there were approximately 30 million hedgehogs across the UK; today, the population has fallen to well below one million across England, Scotland, and Wales combined.
One contributing factor to this decline is the widespread use of concrete gravel boards, which obstruct natural travel routes between gardens. This forces hedgehogs onto roads, leading to increased fatalities and fragmented populations.
Hedgehogs play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by providing natural pest control, contributing to biodiversity, and improving soil health. Their presence supports the balance of our natural environment, which is increasingly under threat.
This Council therefore resolves to:
- Establish a Hedgehog Highway Scheme to support existing residential areas, raising public awareness and providing grants to homeowners who replace concrete gravel boards with timber alternatives featuring hedgehog access holes.
- Incorporate hedgehog-friendly design into planning conditions for new developments, requiring the inclusion of hedgehog access holes in fencing and ensuring residents are informed of their purpose.
- Explore further initiatives to enhance local hedgehog populations, including the promotion of wildlife-friendly gardening practices and a reduction in pesticide use.
This Council recognises the importance of proactive conservation measures and commits to supporting the protection and recovery of hedgehog populations within our local area.