Located in Breamish Valley, Northumberland, the river was thought to have been shortened by one mile through historical modification, in which it was straightened for agricultural purposes. These changes resulted in a disconnection from its floodplain, causing reduction in freshwater species and an increase in downstream flooding.
Things started to look up when an ambitious project decided to combine the use of historic maps and modern technology to revert the river back to its original state. The project was a key element in the River Till Restoration Strategy, which was delivered through the LIFE WADER nature-recovery project. The River Till and its tributaries, which includes the River Breamish, flow through the Northumberland National Park; one of England’s most important landscapes, playing a key role in the conservation of our wildlife.
Restoration of the River Breamish included excavation and diversion of the river, installation of silt traps, and construction of woody dams
In fact, the Till catchment is considered a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), as well as a Site of Special Specific Interest (SSSI), due to the presence of protected species like the otter, Atlantic salmon, and all three native species of lamprey. Restoration of the River Breamish included excavation and diversion of the river, installation of silt traps, and construction of woody dams; all which helped direct the water into new channels and connect it back to its floodplains.
Wildlife has already returned to the river! Salmon and sea trout are taking advantage of the new channels whilst on their journey upstream to breeding grounds. Birds, such as kingfishers and herons, have been spotted making use of the river and damselflies have also made their return! Animals aren’t the only ones making use of these new habitats created by the river restoration. Vegetation has begun to establish itself too, including a rare species of water-crowfoot!
Philip Kearney, Project Manager at Tweed Forum, who helped deliver the project stated that: “It’s fantastic to see the Breamish flowing freely once again with space to move and evolve.” The river will continue to be monitored by the project’s partners, and its findings will be shared to support similar restoration projects around the UK.