National Highways has released footage of deer using the new heathland green bridge over the A3 in Surrey.

“Proof it works: deer captured on camera: wildlife safely crossing the UK’s first heathland green bridge on the A3. After decades of separation, animals are once again moving freely between habitats, exactly as nature intended,” the agency said on LinkedIn.

The UK’s first ever heathland green bridge opened to walkers, cyclists and horse riders in Surrey on 2 June. The Cockcrow Bridge to give it its official title, connects Ockham and Wisley Commons on either side of the A3, providing a unique corridor for one of the rarest habitat types in the country – lowland heathland.

It acts as a safe crossing over the busy carriageway not just for people, but also for wildlife such as deer, badgers, voles and other small animals.

(Picture: Courtesy of National Highways)