The improvement work is taking place at the former Colourworks factory north of Derby. Old weir structures and a build-up of silt had contributed to the original river channel running dry, stopping fish from migrating upstream to spawn; fish were also unable to use an alternative newer section of channel as a weir prevented them passing.
In recent weeks the EA has been working to restore flow to the original channel, allowing fish to pass upstream, and also enhancing wildlife at the site.
Alex Lumsdon, Environment Agency Fisheries Officer said:
“The newly restored channel will provide excellent habitat for fish, in particular brown trout and grayling, which previously wouldn’t have been able to migrate upstream. We have also planted a mixture of flowering aquatic plants and created a wildflower meadow to improve wildlife at the site.
Together with our partners, we are striving to deliver the government’s ambitious plan for improving the environment and this project is just part of the work taking place in the Ecclesbourne river catchment to increase fish populations.”
The EA will return to monitor the site in the summer and evaluate the success of the project.
Ecclesbourne is just one of ten water catchments in England to be selected for a government pilot scheme designed to improve our rivers and waterways. As part of the pilot, the Environment Agency are working with local organisations and groups to improve the wildlife habitat right across the Ecclesbourne river catchment area.
