Metrocentre installs nesting bricks to help declining Swift population

‍ Metrocentre has installed 10 nesting bricks with Climate Action North to support Swifts, a bird species in long-term decline.

The installation, completed in recent weeks, is part of a Rewilding Action Plan developed by Climate Action North,working with Metrocentre which mapped suitable nesting locations across their site as part of their Project Swift.

Swifts are migratory birds that spend almost their entire lives in flight and rely on small gaps in buildings to nest. As nesting sites have disappeared, their numbers have fallen, making artificial nest sites increasingly important for their survival.

Sarah Dover, Operations Manager at Metrocentre, said: “Installing swift bricks is a simple intervention, but it has a real impact for a species in serious decline. It’s important that we take practical action like this on site. By creating safe nesting opportunities, we’re helping to give Swifts a better chance of returning and successfully breeding here.”

The work coincides with Swift Awareness Week 2026, which promotes awareness of Swifts and encourages people to learn more about their conservation.

Sharon Lashley, Climate Action North CEO, said: “This partnership is a strong example of how large commercial sites can play a real role in nature recovery. Swifts are in serious decline, and projects like this turn concern into action by creating the conditions they need to survive. It also helps connect communities to nature in a very visible, practical way, which is essential if we are going to reverse biodiversity loss at scale.”

Metrocentre has also worked with Climate Action North on community engagement through its Global Wilders® programme, with pupils from Dunston Hill Primary School and Front Street Whickham Primary School taking part in environmental learning linked to nature and climate action.

Metrocentre joins other sites supporting Project Swift, including Dalton Park Retail Outlet, an early pilot location for the initiative.

Climate Action North’s work is funded through corporate partnerships and reinvested into environmental projects across the North of England, including habitat creation, community rewilding, training and community climate programmes.

For more information on Swifts visit the Swift Conservation website.

To get involved in Project Swift or become a sponsor, email info@climateactionnorth.org.uk

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