ROADS and wildlife are not often seen as natural partners - but the Government's Highways Agency called a series of briefings around the UK yesterday to underline its commitment to the environment.

A kestrel from the Sion Hill Hall falconry centre, near Thirsk, was the guest of honour at the North Yorkshire launch of a new ten-year biodiversity plan. Local officials gathered at a run-off pond on the side of the A1(M) between Harrogate and York, which already has its own population of fish and is visited by heron, swans, coots and oyster-catchers.

But thousands, if not millions, of other animals and plants will benefit over the next decade if a raft of new projects are achieved.

Nationwide, the Highways Agency has pledged to create or improve 25 wetlands; 150 new hibernation sites for newts; 20 more site for water voles; and to complete 250 more measures to protect otters, along with 20 more artificial holts.

Smaller species do not miss out either, with five new sites planned for the Adonis butterfly. Plant life is also to be encouraged with five new sites for the Deptford pink flower and 40 more for juniper. New corridors of trees will be created linking existing woodland, while there are plans to plant 1,000 more black poplar trees.

However, Highways Agency chief executive, Tim Matthews emphasised success will also rely on others.

"We cannot do this alone. Key to the success will be the successful forging of partnerships with environmental and conservation organisations, neighbouring landowners, local authorities and other interested parties.

"We look forward to working with all these groups to promote biodiversity on our network.''