Swift Nest Box is an ideal subject for a summer conservation action for groups or individuals to undertake to save a threatened species.  The Swift nest box is made from 12mm, exterior grade plywood, treated and sealed. Lid unscrews to facilitate drill fixing (parts not supplied). Hole entrance (29mm x 65mm oblong) and overall specs are as recommended by Swift Conservstion Ireland and is known as the Zeist design, after the city in The Netherlands.  The design incorporates predator proofing with overhanging roof and angled front.

Swifts are under pressure as a summer nesting species in Irelaand due to the high standard, insulated building designs which wont naturally accomodate a crevice seeking, hole nesting species like the Swift. The Swift nest box is designed for a single nesting pair and it is recommended to deploy boxes in two’s or three’s under suitable eaves as Swifts are colonial nesters.  A Swift caller system can be used to attract Swifts into new nesting sites, and users must be licensed by npws.ie to play a tape lure.  Full details on how to attract and save nesting Swifts are available on request.  e mail: oran@irishgardenbirds.ie  for the free pdf: Saving Swifts.

Swift Boxes: A Quick Guide
Swifts often return to the same nest each year. They usually nest in high, sheltered crevices and approach at speed, swooping down before rising up to the entrance, which helps them slow down and land safely. Because they enter their nest this way, the swift nest boxes must be installed with the following:
Installation Guidance
Place box on the wall of a building, tightly under the eaves
Install at least 5m above the ground
Choose a shaded position, ideally facing north or east, to reduce the risk of overheating
Avoid placing the box in strong direct sunlight, especially on hot south-facing walls.
Keep the space below and in front of the box open, so swifts can approach at speed.
Avoid enclosed courtyards, narrow spaces or areas blocked by trees, wires or nearby buildings.
Fit the box according to its design, with the entrance hole correctly positioned. Most swift boxes need to be fitted
horizontally, with the entrance on the bottom edge of the box, either left or right.

Install multiple boxes in groups where possible as swifts are sociable birds that like to nest, feed and migrate together.

A swift caller system can be used during breeding season (May–July) to attract birds to the boxes.
Maintenance
Swift boxes usually need very little maintenance, as swifts make small nests and produce little waste.
However, every few years check the fixings remain secure and for signs of possible decay.

( info from Wildcard.co.uk)