National Highways has revealed details of work being carried out to protect and enhance the environment surrounding the M25 in Kent.

Together with its contractors and Swanley town council, the Government-owned company is currently carrying out improvements at the Pinks Hill balancing pond near Swanley, Kent just beside Junction 3 of the M25.

As part of this project, the team at Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services have helped to plant over 3,500 trees across three sites close to the pond itself.

All the plants will be native, both trees and the wildflower seed mix, and they all offer something to wildlife such fruits/nuts and all are used as invertebrate food plants.

Francis Cluett, National Highways lead, said: “We are delighted to join the council to plant trees near Pinks Hill. These local improvements at Pinks Hill will deliver real benefits for people living nearby. These new trees are part of our plans to ensure the local environment is improved.

“We recognise that the M25 at Swanley runs close to some exceptionally beautiful countryside and we want to make sure it stays that way, so that’s why the team from our contractors will be visiting regularly to check on the condition of the trees.”

Those trees planted have been chosen from the following species:

Yew, Hazel, Dog Rose, Rowan, Spindle, Crab Apple, Silver Birch, Beech, Hawthorn, Small-leaved Lime, Sweet Chestnut, Field Maple, Elder, Wild Privet, Wayfaring Tree, Dogwood and Wild Cherry.

Ryan Hayman, Swanley Town Council’s CEO concluded: “These three planting schemes will benefit biodiversity in Swanley. I look forward to seeing how they will help open up these local spaces for the benefit of residents, visitors, and the wider community. The Town Council is committed to being Carbon Neutral by 2030 and projects like these are part of our overall strategic aim”.

(Picture – National Highways)