WIGHTLINK'S Fishbourne terminal just got a whole lot greener.

Work has begun to create a host of ecologically friendly features, such as bird and bat boxes and insect hotels, as well as a planting programme to introduce shrubs with ecological benefit.

The aim is to provide Isle of Wight wildlife with food and habitats.

Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely joined partners for the launch.

The boxes and hotels have been built and supplied by Men in Sheds, part of the Aspire charity in Ryde.

The plants, all approved by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, have come from the Wootton-based Care in The Garden CIC.

Environmental consultants Artecology, based in Sandown, have also been involved in planning the enhancements.

In addition, Island Roads will present Fishbourne Lane residents with bird and bat boxes to thank them for their co-operation during recent work to reconstruct and resurface the highway.

The project is part of Wightlink’s Green Agenda to make sure the ferry company operates as sustainably and environmentally responsibly as possible.

There are electric vehicle charging points at Fishbourne, as well as at Ryde, Lymington and Portsmouth, and recycling rates have increased.

Wightlink also uses local suppliers whenever possible.

Chief executive Keith Greenfield said: “The idea of the project is to make sure that we maximise every opportunity to introduce wildlife-friendly features to the Fishbourne terminal, home port of our hybrid energy flagship Victoria of Wight.

“We want our terminal – which already houses artificial rockpools or ‘Vertipools’ – to operate in harmony with its environment.

“We are determined the Green Agenda will make a really positive difference to our environment and benefit the community.”

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