A new structure is set to help ‘critically endangered’ fish in the River Stour in Kidderminster.

The Severn Rivers Trust team have been putting the finishing touches on a brand-new fish pass which will help species such as Atlantic salmon reach stretches of the river that used to be harder to access.

An illustrated panel has also been installed to help explain how the fish pass works and introduce some of the species that live in the Stour.

Head of community engagement at Severn Rivers Trust, Alice Fallon, said: “The Severn Rivers Trust are the only environmental organisation operating from source to sea along Britain’s longest river system, the Severn.

“We are absolutely delighted to bring fish back to our rivers and restore them to good health.” 

Kidderminster Shuttle: The new installation will help make parts of the river more accessible for fish The new installation will help make parts of the river more accessible for fish (Image: Severn Rivers Trust)

The River Stour is a vital tributary that flows into the River Severn, but over time it has been modified and polluted due to the rich industrial heritage of the town and human interference.

This has caused problems for fish that can’t swim over obstacles such as old mill wheels at sites including Carter’s Weir.

A ‘baffle pass’ was constructed as part of the latest project which slows the flow of water over the weir face to create a ‘flight of stairs’ that fish can swim up and down successfully. 

Ms Fallon added: “Our commitment to turning the tide on the ecological adversities facing our water environment is bold and ambitious.

“This fish passage work at Carter’s Weir has contributed significantly to our river restoration targets and our vision of a healthy resilient River Severn for everyone.” 

Kidderminster Shuttle: The Environment Agency, Worcestershire County Council’s Natural Networks Programme and Vp plc have helped fund the construction The Environment Agency, Worcestershire County Council’s Natural Networks Programme and Vp plc have helped fund the construction (Image: Severn Rivers Trust)

The latest work has been made possible by the financial support of the Environment Agency, Worcestershire County Council’s Natural Networks Programme and Vp plc, a specialist equipment rental group that provided corporate sponsorship to help fund the scheme.

For more information about the project or to find out about partnering with the Severn Rivers Trust contact Tom.Hartland-smith@severnriverstrust.com