Press Release: Destruction of Swift Colony in Surrey Sparks National Wildlife Crime Concerns
Banstead Swifts
The Swifts of Dorking
Embargoed till 7am, Monday 1st June 2026
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Destruction of Swift Colony in Surrey Sparks National Wildlife Crime Concerns
Surrey, UK — 30 May 2026 — The demolition of a building in Surrey has triggered serious concerns over a breach of UK wildlife law, after an estimated 17–22 nests of the red-listed common swift (Apus apus) were destroyed during works at Regent House near Dorking Station.
The demolition, carried out by Northeast Demolition UK for Hill Group as part of a redevelopment by Clarion Housing, has impacted what may have been the largest known swift colony in Dorking. The site had supported nesting swifts for over a decade and had been monitored by local conservation groups for many years.
Common swifts are a species of high conservation concern in the UK, having declined by over 60% since the 1980s. They are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it an offence to intentionally or recklessly destroy active nests during the breeding season.
Residents report that warnings were raised with Surrey Police Wildlife Officers in early May, shortly after swifts returned from migration and were observed actively nesting within the building. Concerns were also formally raised with Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) and Councillor Margaret Cooksey, Chair of the Development Committee. Despite this, demolition proceeded during peak nesting season.
Conservationists are now describing the incident as a significant wildlife crime, raising broader concerns about the enforcement of environmental protections during development across England.
Mole Valley District Council has confirmed it is now investigating the situation. At the time of writing, no enforcement action has been announced by Surrey Police Wildlife Officers.
Campaigners say the case highlights systemic gaps in the protection of urban-nesting species and are calling for urgent national attention to ensure wildlife laws are properly enforced during development projects.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any relevant information to Surrey Police by calling 101 and quoting crime reference number 45260062539. Dorking residents with swift nest boxes or swift bricks are being asked to play swift calls to help the displaced birds find new nesting sites.
Media Contact:
Annie Griffin
Email: Banstea...@gmail.com
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