West Sussex County Council is installing a new ‘mammal shelf’ in a culvert under the A272 to help otters crossing the road.

In collaboration with the National Trust and Arun and Rother Rivers Trust, the highway authority is installing the shelf this autumn in an undisclosed location close to one of the county’s only breeding otter populations.

It said that at one point there were no otters in West Sussex with road casualties thought to be one of the main issues hampering their return.

Rather than swimming under bridges or through culverts, otters will often choose to travel on foot, resulting in them crossing roads to reach breeding grounds.

The specially designed mammal shelf aims to allow otters to run safely under the road on a ledge above the water.

The council said the partnership will continue to monitor the shelf to gauge its success.

Deborah Urquhart, cabinet member for environment and climate change, said: ‘It's fantastic to see these magnificent animals making a comeback in West Sussex, and we’re extremely proud to have helped ensure the growth of a sustainable otter population with this new mammal shelf.

‘The resurgence of the otter in the UK is a huge conservation achievement after populations declined dramatically between the 1950s and 1970s. Cleaner rivers and healthier habitats have seen otter populations bounce back in recent years; however, one of the main dangers facing otters today are busy roads.

‘Reducing the number of otter road casualties will ensure the successful return of this native mammal to West Sussex waterways.’

The council described the project as a part of its overarching commitment to protect its environment and promote nature recovery and biodiversity, as outlined in its Council plan.

This article was originally published by Highways Magazine.