Swift bricks will become a mandatory feature of new buildings in Scotland under legislation passed by the Scottish Parliament.
The move aims to tackle the sharp decline in cavity-nesting birds such as swifts, whose populations have fallen dramatically as modern buildings eliminate traditional nesting spaces.
We look at how the decision could affect future planning permissions, construction costs, and whether homeowners will be expected to factor in any other wildlife protections when building a new house.
The £30 solution to a growing crisis
The requirement for swift bricks was included as an amendment to the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill, proposed by Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell.
The law states that nesting spaces for swifts and other cavity-nesting birds must be included in new developments “where reasonably practicable and appropriate”.
Swift bricks are hollow bricks that allow birds such as swifts, sparrows, and starlings to nest safely inside walls. They are designed to integrate seamlessly with construction and do not affect structural integrity.
The amendment will now enter a 12-month consultation period to determine exactly how it will be applied in building regulations, including technical standards and placement requirements. For homeowners planning self-builds or extensions, this period will clarify what is legally required.
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The Manthorpe Swift Nesting Brick seamlessly replaces a standard brick to create a discreet, long-lasting breeding space for swifts and other cavity-nesting birds. Designed with a species-specific entrance and durable construction, it blends into the fabric of the building while helping protect declining bird populations. Ideal for new builds and renovations, this is conservation made simple — and built to last the lifetime of the property.
This purpose-built brick replaces a standard wall brick to offer a discreet, durable nesting cavity designed specifically for swifts and other cavity-nesting birds. Easy to install during new builds or renovations, it blends seamlessly into brickwork while helping support local wildlife and enhance biodiversity — a simple, effective way to make your project bird-friendly.
Designed to replace a standard brick in your wall, this purpose-built nesting unit provides a secure, species-friendly cavity for swifts and other cavity-nesting birds. Durable, discrete and easy to incorporate into new builds or renovation projects, it’s a simple way to support wildlife and enhance your property’s environmental credentials.
What it means for homeowners and builders
For those planning new homes or extensions, the change could influence planning applications and building costs – though officials stress the impact is minimal.
Ruskell described the policy as a low-cost, long-term intervention that embeds nature recovery into everyday construction. “The solution to this is incredibly simple – it is literally a brick with a hole in it and costs around £30, and once it’s built in, it’s there for decades,” he said.
According to Ruskell: “It doesn’t block housebuilding, it doesn’t add red tape, and it doesn’t push up costs in any meaningful way. It just makes sure that when we build new homes and workplaces, we leave space for wildlife too.”
The Scottish Government is expected to provide guidance on installation, placement, and compliance as part of building standards. While the law applies to new homes, there is no current requirement for existing homeowners to retrofit swift bricks, though conservation groups encourage voluntary installation where possible.
Gillian Martin, Scottish Government Minister responsible for the Bill, said: “This iconic species was once a very common sight across Scotland, particularly in urban areas, but they are under threat, declining by 60% since 1995… I welcome suggestions of practical ways to help protect this important species and improve biodiversity.”
Wider context and UK comparison
The Scottish move comes as swift bricks for all new homes are expected, although crucially not required in all homes in England, a move which was criticised by campaigners.
Environmental campaigners, such as Karl Toomey, a UK environmental commentator, welcomed the change, saying it should be done in all UK homes. He said: “It’s a beautifully simple solution that costs almost nothing but creates vital habitat for declining species.”
Wildlife writer Sandra Schmidt also added, “For birds who have been quietly losing their homes, this is a big moment. By making [swift bricks] mandatory, Scotland is proving that protecting wildlife does not have to be complicated.”
For homeowners, self-builders, and developers, the legislation signals a shift as future planning permissions and building designs will increasingly consider wildlife, making biodiversity a practical part of construction rather than an afterthought.
