Pictures: Subtle changes at Newton Abbot landmark with big wildlife aim

Newton Abbot Town Council has installed new swift nest boxes at St Leonard’s Tower as part of efforts to support local wildlife.

The boxes were supplied by the Devon Swift Project and fitted by specialist installer Jerry Horn, who has experience working on church towers and other historic buildings across Devon.

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The work comes as numbers of common swifts continue to fall across the UK. 

Conservation groups estimate the population has declined by up to 60 per cent over the past 20 years. 

The decline is linked to changes in building design and land use, which have reduced the small gaps and crevices swifts need for nesting.

Swifts return to the same type of nesting sites each year and are unable to perch, making the loss of suitable locations particularly harmful to the species.

The nest boxes have been designed to suit St Leonard’s Tower, a Grade II* listed building. 

Planning permission for the installation was granted by Teignbridge District Council, and images released show details of the boxes in place on the tower.

It is hoped the tower will attract swifts in future years and help support a local breeding population.

Rob Woodger, facilities maintenance team leader at Newton Abbot Town Council, said: “St Leonard’s Tower is an important local landmark, and it’s good to see it being used in a way that also benefits wildlife.”

The town council is encouraging residents to find out more about swift conservation, including how to support the birds at home. 

Further information is available from the Devon Swift Project.