A66/A595 fish easement schemes

Challenge

Highways England had selected three out of many sites which presented physical in stream barriers to the passage of fish. These included stepped inverts, crest weirs and sections of low and shallow flows. These barriers prevented local migratory fish and eels to utilise upstream waters which has knock on impacts to the overall ecological balance.

Solution

SLR have nationally recognised specialists in the field of fish ecology, therefore were appointed to review the three schemes and provide expert knowledge on the enhancements. Our Aquatic Ecologist and Civil and Structural Engineer led the survey and preparation of detailed engineering drawings which incorporated watercourse improvements and the creation of habitats and pathways for eels and fish.

Impact

All proposals were prepared with minimal impact using natural (no plastic) materials with emphasis on minimising impact at the site and downstream environments