Guides build bird boxes at One Horton Heath

The Allbrook Girl Guides returned to One Horton Heath to see how the new neighbourhood is progressing, and to get hands-on building bird boxes as part of their Birdwatching badge.

Wearing safety goggles and gloves, the Guides carefully assembled their bird boxes, glueing and screwing pre-cut wooden panels into place with the support of AJ Carpentry. They were also supported by Drywall Southern, who donated the wood, and local students from The Route Skills Centre, who cut the pieces to size ahead of the session. Under supervision, the girls also got to use handheld power tools, learning how each part fits together to create a safe home for local birds. 

From a raised viewing platform, the group caught sight of the latest progress at The Lower Acre, noting how much the site had changed since their first visit earlier in the year. 

Once completed, the boxes were passed to the Wates Residential team for a final check and a few finishing touches. The Guides got their creations back soon after to paint and weatherproof with colourful, nature-inspired designs featuring leaves, flowers and berries to help attract local birdlife. 

Most of the Guides got to keep their bird boxes, to display in their garden or local spaces, while one special box will remain at the One Horton Heath site to encourage new feathered residents to settle in. 

Girl Guides Luna (left) and Eloise (right) designed and painted their colourful and inviting birdbox which was selected to be home at the OHH development, alongside existing bird boxes for our local birds. A great effort from all the girls – thank you!

“We are so proud of 1^st Allbrook Guides for their hard work and dedication to this project. Opportunities like this are at the heart of what we do. Giving Girls the chance to build confidence, master practical skills, and develop a lifelong respect and curiosity for the environment all while making a real difference in their communities.” Girlguiding South West England Representative

This activity follows the group’s earlier visit, where they explored the live construction site, learned about sustainability and ecology, and even designed their own “dream town.” Their return marks another great example of local young people getting involved in the growing One Horton Heath community. 

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